Focusing during read aloud has been a difficult for my current group of students. Any suggestions to keep them more engaged and focused during that time?
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I let my 5th graders draw while I read aloud. I print out pages from an adult coloring book. They can color the design or free draw in the back. I have the kids put their sheet in their ELA notebook. That way they aren’t getting up to grab it while I read. You could also do an informal exit ticket—on a sticky note have them write what happened at the beginning, middle, and end of today’s reading.
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Turn and talk moves are always useful especially during longer read alouds. I’ve learned to find 2-3 pausing points in a typical book that you can allow students to stop and process what they’ve heard by sharing with a shoulder partner. Giving just a few minutes to move and talk and then re-engage is so helpful for students.
You can also make building stamina a goal for your students.
You can also give your students something to listen for. (For example: John is going to find something that changes everything, listen and see if you can see what it is…..)
