ES Literacy Introductory Guide: Read Aloud

Read Aloud at Success

We build scholars’ critical thinking skills and passion for reading by reading engaging books aloud to scholars. These books are rich, challenging, and more sophisticated than what scholars can currently read on their own. Through powerful discussions we guide scholars to understand these books at the deepest level. Our goal is for scholars to apply these same critical thinking skills to understand books they read independently.

During Read Aloud, kids learn a myriad of skills. The ultimate goals are:

For kids to fall in love with reading and great books!
To teach kids to think critically
To teach kids to articulate and support their ideas
To expose kids to rich language that expands their vocabulary
To teach kids to speak and debate with clarity and precision

The ultimate goal of Read Aloud is that scholars can truly understand every text that they encounter in their lives at school, at home, and beyond. If kids can read, they can teach themselves anything!

What is the Structure of a Read Aloud Lesson?

Introduce the Book — 1 minute

Build excitement about the book.
Introduce any background knowledge needed to understand the book.

Read the Book — 14–20 minutes (Depending on grade level)

Stop in key places to think aloud, making your thinking explicit to scholars.
Have scholars turn and talk in response to questions about key moments that build towards the main idea.

Discuss the Book as a Class — 15 –20 minutes (Depending on grade level)

At least twice a week, scholars will engage in a rich discussion of a Read Aloud.
Scholars move into a large circle to discuss and debate questions that unpack the meaning of the book.
Throughout the year, scholars build toward a scholar-led discussion that requires little to no teacher moderation.

Watch Read Aloud in Action!

What do you notice about the teacher’s level of preparation and approach?

Creating an Engaging Classroom Library

A well-organized classroom library is essential for fostering a love of reading and building strong in-school and at-home reading habits. It should be a central, inviting, and exciting space that encourages scholars to explore books each week. To make your library both functional and inspiring, ensure it includes:

Leveled books for independent reading
A Read Aloud Library
Literacy Unit/Project-Based Learning materials

Get to know your library by familiarizing yourself with key books to recommend and ensuring scholars have access to high-quality literature. Use the recommended book lists below to stock your classroom with engaging, grade-appropriate books for independent reading and book shopping.