Reading Aloud (Stimulating Class Discussion)

OVERVIEW

Surprisingly, reading a text out loud can help students to focus mentally, raise questions, and stimulate discussion.  This strategy is much like a Bible study session. It has the effect of focusing attention and creating a cohesive group.

PROCEDURE

1.  Choose a text that is sufficiently interesting to read aloud. Limit yourself to a selection of less than 500 words.

2.  Introduce the text to the students. Highlight key points or issues to be raised.

3.  Section off the text by paragraphs or some other means. Invite volunteers to read aloud different sections.

4.  As the reading progresses, stop at several places to emphasize certain points, raise or entertain questions, or give examples. Allow brief discussions if students show an interest in a certain portion. Then proceed with examining what is in the text.

VARIATIONS

1.  Do the reading yourself if you feel it will enhance the presentation of the text or you have concerns about the reading skills of students.

2.  Have pairs read to each other, stopping for clarification and discussion as they see fit.