Teaching English to Young Learners: Classroom Techniques and Activities for Teaching Reading

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Classroom Techniques and Activities for Teaching Reading

Predictable stories and pattern books

The predictable story contains repetitive phrases and predictable language. Predictable books or usually are called as pattern books contain illustrations that help to clarify or support the word, sentence or pattern that is repeated in the text (Optiz, 1995). Using the attracting title written in the cover of the book, the teacher can arise children's attention to predict the content of the story. Teacher can also use the pictures available mostly in every page of the book. This activity can arise their attention and curiosity. It will also encourage them to read the whole story.

Questioning techniques

Comprehension is the aim of reading; therefore the teacher should help children to improve their comprehension. Before children read, you should ask questions to attract their interest. You can ask open – ended questions that are having no true or false answers. For example, Look at the title, what do you think the story will be about? Do you think it is going to be a happy story or a sad story? Look at the beautiful park drawn on the cover of the book, have you ever gone to the park like that? When? With whom did you go with?
While asking those questions, pay attention to these sort of things:
Watch the faces of your students as you ask different questions. You can know their reaction or response toward the questions.
Make sure the number and type of questions you ask. The questions should generate interest and enthusiasm for what is being read. Make questions that are suitable with your students' ability and age.
Don't make your students feel worried of not being able to answer correctly.
Try to ask questions that help children become involved with the text.

Graphic Organizers

You can help students comprehend the story by simplify the story using some kind of graphics. After reading the story, try to involve your students in making table, Venn diagrams, or spider web which will help them to simplify the story and comprehend it.

Engage learners

One of the things that is so nice about children's picture books is that the pictures are often very engaging. It is important to draw children's attention to interesting and imaginative illustrations as a way to make reading a pleasurable experience. Involve your students and you will be amazed of what they learn.

posted by Ellen @ 3:35 AM

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