Last week I was having a reading conference with a friend, and as we were talking about TBR piles and good book recipes, another idea came to me that would help one reader, and then in turn many others: kiddos doing read aloud.
As I continued to talk to this friend about books, I suggested that he choose a book from his new TBR pile to share with the class. We talked about how he would have to prepare to do this, including practicing holding the book up so that everyone could see the pictures. It was totally picture-worthy while he was working.
And maybe the best part was when he turned to me and said, “Wow, this is hard. My arm hurts! Is it hard for you, too?” We had a great little chat about how teachers have to have strong arms. 🙂
He continued to work and was ready to present to us. Man was he excited!
Check out the stories he shared with us:
Well…as you can imagine, this sparked interest by many other people to be able to share with us at read aloud time. And what a great idea, as I considered all of the many things kiddos learn on both sides of this opportunity.
We began to schedule read alouds in a couple of ways: I gave some friends the assignment based on books we were reading in our small group together, and some friends just began to request a spot. And since then it’s become a “have-to” for everyone. It’s just such a good idea that we (ok, probably I) decided all should participate!
Amber took the next turn, and did a super job of matching up to what my lesson would have been that day anyway–good readers use evidence from the text to support their thinking.
Then on Friday, Emily took her turn and taught us about fiction/non-fiction (as well as using some pretty great teacher moves for management!) with The Little Work Plane.
Now don’t worry if you don’t see your favorite Rm. 202 friend in this post–each will get their turn. While I had originally never intended to take this path with readers in our room, it’s a SUPER example of how organically ideas come up for us, and how kids’ ideas are often the BEST ideas! Thanks, Rm. 202 kiddos for taking chances, learning new things and then sharing that learning with the rest of us!
20somethingkids and 1kookyteacher 
This is an awesome idea!!!!!!!! Can you share your sign-up strategy??? 🙂
Shannon
http://www.irunreadteach.wordpress.com
It’s been such a great idea, and has really encouraged some of my “quieter” friends to jump in and share things that they are good at. It’s funny, but we just pass around a paper calendar! Simple, I know, but that way we can all see it whenever we need it. Kids just choose a free day and sign up with their name and the book they’re going to share. Before their day, I make sure ot check in with them to see what they are going to teach or discuss with the class and give support as needed. Twice so far kiddos have made charts with teaching points and questions that go along with their stories. #futureteachers?? So glad you enjoyed it–could absolutely work for your 3rd graders! Great way to get to know each other, too, as you see the titles that kids choose. Many of my friends have brought in their favorites from home. 🙂