R.E.A.L. Sampler Guide
• Explain: Introduce yourself (you might mention your job, for a career connection). Explain that you are here to read a book aloud and then talk about it with them. Tell them they will get to take home a copy of the book to keep and read with their families! Plus, they’ll get activities to do. Let them know that you’ll be back [number of] times. (The teacher or facilitator will likely have explained this previously, so this will probably be a review.) 2 CONNECT | With Children
• Name Pronunciation: Have each child say their name (and perhaps share a short, easy, low-anxiety icebreaker, such as their favorite animal, time permitting). Write down how to pronounce any names you aren’t familiar with. If needed, you can say something like, “It’s important for me to pronounce your name correctly. Could you please say it again for me?”Then thank them. • Bond: Start by making small talk and getting to know each other a bit by eliciting conversation (only students who wish to talk can speak up). For example, you might say something like: “I’m looking forward to getting to know each other a bit! The book we’ll read today is about food. Personally, I can’t get enough of [your favorite food]. What are your favorite foods?” • Read: See the READ section below for detailed information about the read- aloud portion of the visit. • Wrapping Up: At the end of a visit, thank the children and your host for sharing this reading space with you. Say how much you enjoyed yourself and that you’re looking forward to next time! Remind the kids to take their books home and read them with their families.
BEST GUEST Remember, you are a guest in a teacher’s classroom or a facilitator’s space. built-in support system, so ask for help when needed, and thank your host. before you open supplies or move furniture and such. This means: • You have a • Be sure to ask
3 READ | With Children
• Voice and Emotion: It’s common, especially with young children, to do di erent “voices” for characters during read-alouds. • Avoid putting on other people’s accents. • Do match the emotion in di erent characters’ voices. This is a powerful way to help characters sound di erent while aiding in reading comprehension. You can also vary your speed and tone for di erent characters. • Personal Connection: As you read, show your reactions. Here are some examples: • Laugh or smile at the funny parts. • If something surprising happens, blurt out a “Whoa!” • If a character is in pain, your facial expression and voice can communicate your worry and empathy. • If a book is silly, you can exaggerate your expression. “I can’t believe there’s an alien in my living room” sounds very di erent from “I caaaaan’t beliiiieeeeve there’s an ALIEN in my LIVING ROOM!” • Overall: Reveal your genuine enjoyment of reading and your investment in stories in whatever way feels natural to you.
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