What is it?
Choral Reading means that a group of students read together in unison. Typically it is first modelled by a teacher and then imitated by a group of students.
Why do it?
Choral Reading helps build confidence and fluency. It's also fun and helps everyone feel part of a group. When students feel the security of being part of a group, they are more motivated to participate.
Who is it best for?
It is great for readers at all levels!
- Beginning readers get support with tricky words and feel more confident.
- Early readers increase their fluency. As they practice the same passage more than once, they get to practice the tricky words each time.
- Second language learners or students who are not reading at grade level, it destigmatizes reading in a group.
- All readers benefit when teachers model varying the prosity, that is, pitch, tone, intonation and volume.
- All readers benefit from learning to read with expression and an appropriate pace.
How do I do it?
- Choose an appropriate text. This means a text that could be read by most of the group independently.
- Provide each student with a copy.
- Model reading with target expression and pace.
- Repeat as needed until students are on target.
- Performing in front of an audience helps provide motivation and the thrill of success!
Tips for Older Students
This isn't just for beginner readers! Older students benefit from the example and support showing expression in their oral language. This is a great way to explore Shakespeare. You can also use song lyrics or spoken word poetry or have students write their own passages.
