Primary teachers read each day to their students. Students listen to varied text, including chapter books. Not only do students have the opportunity to hear fluent reading with expression and intonation, but a whole new world becomes available to them. Books that they would otherwise not be able to enjoy come to life. By listening to chapter books, students begin to develop an understanding of plot and characterization.
The chapter books that teachers select must be chosen wisely. Books must be exciting enough to hold the attention of young listeners. If books are too complicated, students might get bored. And remember to keep in mind the developmental level of young children, books that are very scary or deal with complex issues should be avoided.
There are many resources on the internet that can provide adults with tips on how to read aloud successfully. Here is a short list of sites to visit.
There are also many sites that contain lists of great read aloud books. Here are a few sites.
I have compiled my own list of wonderful chapter books to read aloud in the classroom. These books will hold the attention of young listeners, most of them are very amusing. Have fun reading! The books are listed randomly. Click on the titles to read reviews.
by Linda Leopold Strauss
by S.E. Hinton
by Ellen Leroe
by Judy Blume
by Judy Blume
by James Howe
by Barbara Park
by Roald Dahl
by Roald Dahl
by Roald Dahl
by Jeff Brown
by Dick King Smith
by Robert Kimmel Smith
by Stephanie Greene
by Susan Wojciechowski
