Episodes

  • Part 4: Teaching Reading in the First Year of School

    Part 4: Teaching Reading in the First Year of School
    Jul 28 2024
    In the fourth part of our podcast series ‘Teaching Reading in the First Year of School’, we delve into the intricacies of teaching reading in the first year of school. Hosted by Phil and Diane, this episode tackles the often oversimplified narrative that there are only two types of reading instruction: those who teach phonics explicitly and those who don't. They emphasise that teaching reading is a multifaceted process requiring a comprehensive approach.Phil expresses frustration with the media's misrepresentation of reading instruction, which can lead to misconceptions among parents and educators alike. Diane highlights the importance of professional development and statewide programs, like the Early Literacy in Service Course (ELIC), which equipped teachers with the knowledge and skills needed for effective reading instruction.They discuss the critical role of parents in fostering a love of reading at home, noting that children who are read to frequently tend to perform better in school. Diane offers practical advice for parents, including a curated list of recommended books, which will be available in the show notes.The episode also explores the significance of a well-organised classroom library and the impact of children having access to a variety of books. Phil and Diane stress that having individual book boxes and a diverse classroom library helps children develop a daily reading habit and fosters a sense of ownership over their learning.High-frequency words and phonics are central topics, with Diane explaining the different methods for teaching these skills. She underscores the importance of teaching children to recognise and write high-frequency words through engaging and interactive methods. Additionally, Diane highlights the need for children to understand the meaning and structure of words, rather than relying solely on rote memorization.In addressing the challenges faced by disadvantaged schools, they shared a poignant story about a boy in Year 7 who lacked access to books, underscoring the need for equitable resources in education. She advocates for making school libraries accessible to both students and parents to bridge this gap.Ultimately, this episode emphasises the complexity of teaching reading and the need for a balanced, comprehensive approach. Phil and Diane advocate for professional development, parental involvement, and equitable access to resources as key components in fostering literacy and a love of reading among young learners.NEW TEACHIFIC RESOURCESThe Comprehensive Reading Curriculum 2024Helping Children to Learn High Frequency Words F-1, 2024Learning About Letter-Sound Relationships to Read Words F-1, 2024The Usefulness of Onsets and Rimes When Reading and Writing F-2, 2024Comprehension in Foundation - Strategies, Instruction, Assessment F, 2024TEACHIFIC RESOURCESCourse: Understanding English OrthographyPicture books for 5-6 year oldsAlphabet books for 5.6 year oldsNursery Rhymes and SongsJOIN TEACHIFIC NOW AND SAVE!Join Teachific today. Access thousands of resources and a growing number of 'anytime' courses within your membership.FURTHER INFORMATIONTune in to "Teacher's Tool Kit For Literacy," a free podcast where accomplished literacy educator Sharon Callen and her team share valuable insights and tips. With over 30 years of experience, they provide strategic learning solutions to empower teachers and leaders worldwide. Subscribe on your favourite platform for exclusive literacy learning content. Apple, Spotify, Google, YouTubeRead our insightful blogs, which make valuable connections between resources, podcasts and courses.Visit our Cue Learning website and sign up for the Teacher's Toolkit Weekly newsletter to stay updated on resources, events and discover how Cue can support you and your school.Explore Teachific, our vast collection of PDF resources, to enhance your teaching toolkit. And get even more support from our growing number of 'anytime' online courses.Connect with the latest news and other educators by joining our Teacher's Toolkit Facebook groupExplore upcoming live or online webinar eventsHave questions or feedback? Reach out to us directly at admin@cuelearning.com.au.
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    41 mins
  • Part 3: Teaching Reading in the First Year of School

    Part 3: Teaching Reading in the First Year of School
    Jul 21 2024
    In this enlightening episode (Part 3) of the " Teaching Reading in the First Year of School" podcast, literacy education expert Diane Snowball dives deeply into the often overlooked yet crucial aspects of teaching reading in schools. She stresses that while phonemic awareness and phonics are essential, comprehension and vocabulary instruction must also be prioritised. Diane highlights a common issue: some schools focus so heavily on phonics that they leave little room for students to practise reading and develop comprehension strategies. This imbalance can hinder students' overall reading proficiency.Diane shares a poignant example from her teaching experience. A young girl inferred that it must be summer in a story because the shop displayed sandals, not boots. This story illustrates how children can use illustrations to enhance comprehension, underscoring the importance of teaching students to use various cues and strategies to understand texts.Diane discusses the necessity of teaching multiple reading strategies beyond phonics. She emphasises the value of teaching children to use context clues, syntax, and self-correction to decode and comprehend words. She explains that understanding the role of morphemes and rimes (e.g., recognising that 'lay' and 'day' share a common ending sound) can significantly enhance a child’s reading skills.The conversation also covers the broader implications of focusing too narrowly on one aspect of reading instruction. Diane argues that while phonics is important, it should not overshadow other vital components like comprehension and vocabulary. She criticises the trend in some educational policies that overly emphasise phonics at the expense of a well-rounded approach to reading.Diane advocates for a balanced, comprehensive approach to reading instruction that includes phonemic awareness, phonics, comprehension, and vocabulary. She calls for professional development for teachers to ensure they are equipped to teach these multifaceted aspects of reading effectively. Diane’s extensive experience and insights offer valuable guidance for educators seeking to foster robust reading skills in their students. This episode is a must-listen for educators, school leaders, and anyone interested in the nuances of comprehensive reading instruction.NEW TEACHIFIC RESOURCESThe Comprehensive Reading Curriculum 2024Helping Children to Learn High Frequency Words F-1, 2024Learning About Letter-Sound Relationships to Read Words F-1, 2024The Usefulness of Onsets and Rimes When Reading and Writing F-2, 2024Comprehension in Foundation - Strategies, Instruction, Assessment F, 2024TEACHIFIC RESOURCESCourse: Understanding English OrthographyPicture books for 5-6 year oldsAlphabet books for 5.6 year oldsNursery Rhymes and SongsJOIN TEACHIFIC NOW AND SAVE!Join Teachific today. Access thousands of resources and a growing number of 'anytime' courses within your membership.FURTHER INFORMATIONTune in to "Teacher's Tool Kit For Literacy," a free podcast where accomplished literacy educator Sharon Callen and her team share valuable insights and tips. With over 30 years of experience, they provide strategic learning solutions to empower teachers and leaders worldwide. Subscribe on your favourite platform for exclusive literacy learning content. Apple, Spotify, Google, YouTubeRead our insightful blogs, which make valuable connections between resources, podcasts and courses.Visit our Cue Learning website and sign up for the Teacher's Toolkit Weekly newsletter to stay updated on resources, events and discover how Cue can support you and your school.Explore Teachific, our vast collection of PDF resources, to enhance your teaching toolkit. And get even more support from our growing number of 'anytime' online courses.Connect with the latest news and other educators by joining our Teacher's Toolkit Facebook groupExplore upcoming live or online webinar eventsHave questions or feedback? Reach out to us directly at admin@cuelearning.com.au.
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    42 mins
  • Part 2: Teaching Reading in the First Year of School

    Part 2: Teaching Reading in the First Year of School
    Jul 14 2024

    Welcome back to Part 2 of our podcast series on “Teaching Reading in the First Year of School" with literacy expert, Diane Snowball. In this episode, we delve into the vital components of building a strong foundation in literacy for young learners. Diane emphasises the importance of creating a rich linguistic environment through Read-Aloud, Shared Reading, and exposing children to a variety of texts, both fiction and non-fiction.

    Diane explains that a deep well of language, vocabulary, and grammar is essential for comprehension. This is achieved not through simple texts but through rich, diverse literature that provides children with background knowledge and different text structures. She highlights the significance of exposing children to various genres, including poetry, folktales, historical fiction, realistic fiction, and science fiction, to enhance their understanding and appreciation of language.

    A central theme of the discussion is the role of read-alouds in early literacy development. Diane stresses that read-alouds should not be an occasional activity but an integral part of daily teaching. Teachers should carefully plan the fiction and non-fiction materials they will read to ensure a wide range of content and text types. This approach not only builds children's knowledge but also their motivation and enjoyment of reading. Motivation, Diane notes, is a crucial factor in learning to read, and providing access to books that children love can make a significant difference.

    The conversation moves to the importance of a rich classroom library. Diane underscores the need for multiple copies of beloved books to ensure that all children have access to them. She shares anecdotes about children enthusiastically re-reading their favourite books, following the teacher's expression and pace, and gaining fluency and comprehension skills. She also discusses the concept of cohesive ties and the importance of teaching children to use pronouns and other language structures to connect ideas and understand texts deeply.

    Diane and her co-host Phil explore the power of Shared Reading, where children see, hear, and join in with the text, enhancing their comprehension and enjoyment. They highlight the importance of choosing texts that are worth reading multiple times, as these texts enable children to perceive themselves as readers and develop their fluency and expression. They also touch on the role of Reader's Theatre in improving fluency, comparing it to a musician practising a piece of music to perfect their performance.

    In the final segment, Diane encourages teachers to create their own class texts using blank chart paper, modelling various print concepts and sound-letter relationships as they write. This approach not only reinforces the learning objectives but also engages children in the process of creating and reading their own stories, further strengthening their literacy skills.

    Overall, this episode provides a comprehensive guide for teachers on how to foster a love of reading and build essential literacy skills in the first year of school through thoughtful selection of texts, daily Read-Aloud, Shared Reading, and interactive literacy activities.

    NEW TEACHIFIC RESOURCES

    • The Comprehensive Reading Curriculum 2024
    • Helping Children to Learn High Frequency Words F-1, 2024
    • Learning About Letter-Sound Relationships to Read Words F-1, 2024
    • The Usefulness of Onsets and Rimes When Reading and Writing F-2, 2024
    • Comprehension in Foundation - Strategies, Instruction, Assessment F, 2024

    TEACHIFIC RESOURCES

    • Course: Understanding English Orthography
    • Picture books for 5-6 year olds
    • Alphabet books for 5.6 year olds
    • Nursery Rhymes and Songs
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    35 mins
  • Part 1: Teaching Reading in the First Year of School

    Part 1: Teaching Reading in the First Year of School
    Jul 7 2024
    Welcome to "Teaching Reading in the First Year of School," a series of podcasts dedicated to guiding educators through the essential components of a comprehensive reading curriculum for beginning readers. Join host Phil and literacy expert Diane Snowball as they delve into the critical aspects of teaching reading to young learners.In this episode, Diane Snowball, a renowned literacy specialist, provides invaluable insights into constructing a well-rounded reading curriculum for early readers. Diane discusses some of the key elements, including concepts of print, phonological awareness, phonemic awareness, phonics, morphemic awareness, high-frequency words, the reading process, vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, and the significance of fostering motivation and enjoyment in reading. Other components are discussed in other episodes.Diane emphasises the importance of varied instructional methods such as Read Aloud, Shared Reading, Independent Reading, Interactive Writing, and Language Experience Work. She shares her recent experiences working with the dedicated staff at Elsternwick Primary School, where collaboration and continuous learning among teachers have significantly enhanced the reading curriculum for foundation and grade one students.Understanding the diverse reading abilities children bring to their first year of school is crucial. Diane highlights the necessity of individualised instruction based on students' unique experiences and knowledge. Through regular reading conferences, teachers at Elsternwick Primary School learn about their students' reading capabilities, enabling the teachers to tailor instruction to meet each child's needs effectively.Diane also discusses the foundational role of concepts of print, including the one-to-one correspondence between spoken and written words. She explains how repetitive books with predictable patterns can aid children in developing these essential skills. Additionally, Diane stresses the significance of teaching phonological and phonemic awareness, helping children recognise sounds in language and how this can assist with reading.To support educators, Diane offers practical strategies for teaching letters, sounds, and word recognition. She advocates for using a variety of texts and creating custom decodable books based on students' experiences and classroom learning. This approach not only reinforces phonics skills but also enhances students' motivation and engagement by involving them in the creation of their own reading materials.Throughout the episode, Diane provides thoughtful advice on classroom management, ensuring that teaching practices are adaptable to the diverse needs of young learners. By building a strong foundation in reading, fostering a love for books, and addressing individual learning needs, educators can set their students on a path to successful and enjoyable reading experiences from the very beginning of their school journey.READ THE BLOG here.NEW TEACHIFIC RESOURCESThe Comprehensive Reading Curriculum 2024Helping Children to Learn High Frequency Words F-1, 2024Learning About Letter-Sound Relationships to Read Words F-1, 2024The Usefulness of Onsets and Rimes When Reading and Writing F-2, 2024Comprehension in Foundation - Strategies, Instruction, Assessment F, 2024TEACHIFIC RESOURCESCourse: Understanding English OrthographyPicture books for 5-6 year oldsAlphabet books for 5.6 year oldsNursery Rhymes and SongsJOIN TEACHIFIC NOW AND SAVE!Join Teachific today. Access thousands of resources and a growing number of 'anytime' courses within your membership.FURTHER INFORMATIONTune in to "Teacher's Tool Kit For Literacy," a free podcast where accomplished literacy educator Sharon Callen and her team share valuable insights and tips. With over 30 years of experience, they provide strategic learning solutions to empower teachers and leaders worldwide. Subscribe on your favourite platform for exclusive literacy learning content. Apple, Spotify, Google, YouTubeRead our insightful blogs, which make valuable connections between resources, podcasts and courses.Visit our Cue Learning website and sign up for the Teacher's Toolkit Weekly newsletter to stay updated on resources, events and discover how Cue can support you and your school.Explore Teachific, our vast collection of PDF resources, to enhance your teaching toolkit. And get even more support from our growing number of 'anytime' online courses.Connect with the latest news and other educators by joining our Teacher's Toolkit Facebook groupExplore upcoming live or online webinar eventsHave questions or feedback? Reach out to us directly at admin@cuelearning.com.au.
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    32 mins
  • Part 2: Invitation to New Books with Genevieve Kruyssen

    Part 2: Invitation to New Books with Genevieve Kruyssen
    Jun 30 2024

    In this podcast episode of "Invitation to New Books," hosts Sharon Callen and Genevieve Kruyssen delve into a delightful array of new children's books, highlighting the enchanting narratives and rich cultural tapestries that make each one a must-read.

    The conversation begins with "The Wombat Who Fell in Love with the Sky" by Tylissa Elisara. Genevieve's admiration for the story is evident as she discusses the book's deep connection to Kangaroo Island. The narrative of Wurtu, the wombat, embarking on an epic journey across the Forest of Dreaming, resonated with Genevieve, who praised the book’s charming language and vivid sense of place. The story, inspired by Elisara’s desire to combat the effects of racism experienced by her son, invites readers into Wurtu's world, making them feel at home in the bushland.

    Next, Genevieve introduces "Ember and the Island of Lost Creatures" by Jason Pamment. This graphic novel, reminiscent of the popular "Lightfall" series, captures readers with its mystical energy and animated storytelling. The tale of Ember, a tiny person navigating a magical school full of unique creatures, is brought to life through Piment's dynamic illustrations and engaging narrative. Genevieve lauds the book’s seamless panel transitions and the captivating adventure that begins from the very first page.

    Transitioning to a different yet equally enchanting tale, the hosts discuss "Millie Mak the Maker" by Alice Pung, illustrated by Sher Rill Ng. This book beautifully combines storytelling with crafting, offering patterns and instructions for the crafts Millie creates within the narrative. The story celebrates creativity, cultural diversity, and the bond between Millie and her two grandmas. Genevieve appreciates the book's accessible language and its potential to spark meaningful discussions among young readers about creativity and family.

    The episode also touches on "Tweet" by Morris Gleitzman, a story that alternates between the perspectives of a boy named Jay and his pet budgie, Clyde. Genevieve admires Gleitzman’s ability to capture both characters’ voices and the humor and heart embedded in their journey. The alternating chapters and short, punchy segments keep readers engaged in this whimsical adventure.

    In the final segment, Genevieve highlights two notable books: "My Brother's Keeper," a poignant tale set during the Korean Civil War, and "The Wintrish Girl" by Melanie La’Brooy, an intricately plotted fantasy that bridges the gap between "Keeper of the Lost Cities" and "Nevermore." Genevieve praises "The Wintrish Girl" for its detailed world-building and the recognition it received from the inaugural Danz Awards, judged by children.

    Throughout the episode, Genevieve's passion for children's literature shines through as she shares insights into each book's unique charm and educational potential. This lively discussion offers listeners a treasure trove of recommendations for enriching young readers’ lives with diverse and captivating stories.
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    27 mins
  • Part 1: Invitation to New Books with Genevieve Kruyssen

    Part 1: Invitation to New Books with Genevieve Kruyssen
    Jun 23 2024
    In this episode of "Invitation to New Books," Sharon and Phil welcome the engaging Genevieve Kruyssen from the renowned Brisbane bookshop "Where the Wild Things Are." This lively discussion promises an exciting journey through a handpicked selection of children’s books that Genevieve enthusiastically shares.The episode begins with Genevieve introducing the enchanting picture book "Good Night, Good Beach" by Joy Cowley and Hilary Jean Tapper. She praises its rhythmic, poetic narrative, which beautifully captures a day at the beach, from dawn to dusk. Sharon and Genevieve both highlight the book’s ability to appeal to readers of all ages, particularly grandparents who might relish its quaint, old-fashioned illustrations.Next, Genevieve shifts to "Two Turtles" by Keir Thomas and illustrated by Jake A. Minton, a whimsical tale about two turtles racing off a cliff. The narrative’s playful tone and engaging illustrations make it a hit with children and adults alike. Sharon appreciates the book’s humour and the expressive eyes of the turtles, which convey much of the story’s emotion and action.The conversation then moves to "The Big Book of Australian Nursery Rhymes" by Frannie La Saxe. This vibrant collection reimagines traditional nursery rhymes with an Australian twist. Genevieve and Sharon discuss the educational potential of these playful innovations, noting how they can help children connect with their environment and inspire them to create their own versions of beloved classics.Genevieve also brings attention to "Three Dresses" by Wanda Gibson, a poignant narrative that provides a glimpse into the life of a young girl living on the Hopevale mission. The story, told through the lens of the three dresses the girl receives each year, is both touching and educational, offering insights into a unique cultural experience.The podcast delves into chapter books with "Losing the Plot" by Annaliese Byrd, a debut novel that reimagines the Hansel and Gretel fairytale with humour and a modern twist. The story's witty dialogue and clever use of acronyms provide a fun and engaging reading experience. Sharon and Genevieve discuss how the book’s lively narrative and fairytale themes can captivate young readers and encourage them to explore classic tales.Throughout the episode, Genevieve’s passion for children’s literature shines through, as she emphasises the importance of storytelling in fostering imagination and learning. Sharon and Phil’s enthusiasm and thoughtful questions make this episode a delightful exploration of new books that are sure to enchant young readers and those who read with them.Join Sharon, Phil, and Genevieve for this heartwarming and insightful episode as they celebrate the magic of children's books and the joy of reading.BLOG:Invitation to New Books blogACCESS THE BOOKSAt Where the Wild Things Are bookshopJOIN TEACHIFIC NOW AND SAVE!Join Teachific today. Access thousands of resources and a growing number of 'anytime' courses within your membership.FURTHER INFORMATIONTune in to "Teacher's Tool Kit For Literacy," a free podcast where accomplished literacy educator Sharon Callen and her team share valuable insights and tips. With over 30 years of experience, they provide strategic learning solutions to empower teachers and leaders worldwide. Subscribe on your favourite platform for exclusive literacy learning content. Apple, Spotify, Google, YouTubeRead our insightful blogs, which make valuable connections between resources, podcasts and courses.Visit our Cue Learning website and sign up for the Teacher's Toolkit Weekly newsletter to stay updated on resources, events and discover how Cue can support you and your school.Explore Teachific, our vast collection of PDF resources, to enhance your teaching toolkit. And get even more support from our growing number of 'anytime' online courses.Connect with the latest news and other educators by joining our Teacher's Toolkit Facebook groupExplore upcoming live or online webinar eventsHave questions or feedback? Reach out to us directly at admin@cuelearning.com.au.
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    32 mins
  • Part 7: High Impact Strategies for Struggling Readers, Years 3 to 6

    Part 7: High Impact Strategies for Struggling Readers, Years 3 to 6
    Jun 16 2024
    Welcome back to our podcast series on "High Impact Strategies for Struggling Readers, Years 3 to 6." Today, we delve into paired reading, a one-on-one strategy with proven success, particularly in classrooms where students need tailored interventions.To recap our journey so far: we've explored reading workshops, book selection strategies, and the importance of read-aloud sessions. Each strategy is designed to address specific needs in young readers, from fluency to comprehension, and vocabulary to text structure.Now, let's focus on paired reading, a method developed by Keith Topping. This technique involves an adult—whether a teacher, classroom assistant, or even a parent—reading alongside a student. It's an intentional, structured process that requires consistency and patience but can significantly boost a child's reading skills and confidence.The key to paired reading lies in its simplicity and the power of one-on-one attention. It's especially effective for students who struggle with decoding, fluency, or maintaining motivation. By reading together, students experience immediate support and correction, making the reading process less daunting and more enjoyable.Here's how it works:Getting Started: The student selects a book of interest, ideally at an instructional level (around 95% readability). This ensures the text is challenging but not overwhelming. The adult shows interest in the book choice, setting a positive tone for the reading session.Reading Together: Both the adult and the student read aloud in unison. The adult matches the student's pace but aims to model fluent reading. If the student struggles with word-by-word reading, the adult nudges the pace slightly to encourage more fluid reading.Error Correction: If the student mispronounces a word or hesitates, the adult waits five seconds to allow the student to self-correct. If correction doesn’t occur, the adult provides the correct word, and the student repeats it. This immediate feedback helps reinforce correct reading patterns without breaking the flow.Taking Turns: The student signals when they feel ready to read alone. This can be a nudge, a tap, or a raised finger. The adult praises this initiative and stops reading aloud, allowing the student to continue independently. If the student encounters difficulty again, the process of joint reading and correction resumes.Praise and Feedback: Specific praise is crucial. Highlighting what the student did well—such as recognising a prefix or correctly decoding a challenging word—builds their confidence and skills. This positive reinforcement encourages persistence and resilience.Paired reading sessions are recommended three times a week for about 10-15 minutes each. This regular practice can be managed within the classroom's independent reading time, ensuring that multiple students can benefit without significant disruption.By integrating paired reading into your teaching repertoire, you're not just helping students decode words but also fostering a love for reading and building their overall confidence. It's a powerful strategy that, when used thoughtfully, can make a significant difference in the reading lives of struggling students.READ OUR BLOG BOOKSTopping, K. Paired Reading, Spelling and Writing: The Handbook for Teachers and Parents: Handbook for Parent and Peer Tutoring in Literacy TEACHIFICReading Calendars 2024Reading Journals by GradeJOIN TEACHIFIC NOW AND SAVE!Join Teachific today. Access thousands of resources and a growing number of 'anytime' courses within your membership.FURTHER INFORMATIONTune in to "Teacher's Tool Kit For Literacy," a free podcast where accomplished literacy educator Sharon Callen and her team share valuable insights and tips. With over 30 years of experience, they provide strategic learning solutions to empower teachers and leaders worldwide. Subscribe on your favourite platform for exclusive literacy learning content. Apple, Spotify, Google, YouTubeRead our insightful blogs, which make valuable connections between resources, podcasts and courses.Visit our Cue Learning website and sign up for the Teacher's Toolkit Weekly newsletter to stay updated on resources, events and discover how Cue can support you and your school.Explore Teachific, our vast collection of PDF resources, to enhance your teaching toolkit. And get even more support from our growing number of 'anytime' online courses.Connect with the latest news and other educators by joining our Teacher's Toolkit Facebook groupExplore upcoming live or online webinar eventsHave questions or feedback? Reach out to us directly at admin@cuelearning.com.au.
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    39 mins
  • Part 6: High Impact Strategies for Struggling Readers, Years 3 to 6

    Part 6: High Impact Strategies for Struggling Readers, Years 3 to 6
    Jun 9 2024
    Welcome back to part six of our podcast series on high-impact strategies for struggling readers in Years 3 to 6. Today, we delve into the power of reading aloud, a topic that Mem Fox has passionately explored. Let's reiterate the value of making read-aloud sessions a daily, intentional practice.Once you establish a routine of read-alouds, students will look forward to it and demand it. This excitement is fuelled by selecting texts that not only captivate their interests but also expand their horizons. Instead of choosing books that mirror their everyday experiences, consider texts that introduce them to new ideas and genres, fostering curiosity and broadening their understanding of the world.Chapter books are particularly important for students in Years 3 to 6. They help children develop the skills to engage with longer texts, sustain their interest, and think deeply. Australian authors like Emily Rodda, with series like Rowan of Rin and Deltora Quest, offer rich, immersive stories that are perfect for read-aloud sessions. Similarly, Katrina Nannestad’s "We Are Wolves" and Catherine Applegate's verse narrative "Odder" provide diverse literary experiences.The key is to read books you've personally enjoyed and found successful with students. When choosing a book, consider the unique dynamics and interests of your class. Ensure that read-aloud sessions are inclusive, especially for struggling readers, who should not miss out on this enriching experience. These sessions allow all students to be part of the "literacy club," engaging in discussions and building their vocabulary and comprehension skills.Balancing enjoyment with instructional opportunities is crucial. Focus primarily on the enjoyment of the story, but don't shy away from teaching moments. For example, if you notice your students struggling with punctuation, you can briefly highlight how it's used during a read-aloud session without disrupting the flow of the story. This can be revisited and reinforced during dedicated mini-lessons in your reading workshop.Reading aloud is one of the most effective, low-input strategies we have. It doesn't require special materials, just a fluent reader and a collection of thoughtfully chosen books. It's a practice that supports all readers, enhancing vocabulary, comprehension, and overall literacy skills. By making it a daily practice, we provide every child with the opportunity to grow as a reader and thinker.In conclusion, read-aloud sessions are more than just a classroom activity; they are a powerful tool for building a community of readers. They offer shared experiences that foster discussions, wonder, and discovery. So, let’s commit to making read-aloud a high-impact, daily part of our teaching strategy, ensuring that every child benefits from the magic of a well-told story.BOOKS, in the order mentioned in the podcast:Rodda, E. Rowan of RinRodda, E. Deltora QuestRodda, E. The GlimmeNannestad, K. Rabbit, Soldier, Angel, ThiefNannestad, K. We Are WolvesDiTerlizzi, T. and Black, H. The Spiderwick Chronicles - Field GuideApplegate, K. OdderGold, H. The Last BearMa, S. A Glasshouse of StarsStewart, P. and Riddell, C. Fergus CraneFunke, C. Dragon RiderMorpurgo, M. The Fox and the Ghost KingPennypacker, S. PaxCooper, H. The Hippo at the End of the HallHowes, K. Woven of the WorldMystery, P. The Midnight PantherBlackall, S. FarmhouseBailey, S. The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Peculiar Pairs in NatureVan Allsburg, C. JumanjiVan Allsburg, C. The Polar ExpressVan Allsburg, C. The Mysteries of Harris BurdickVan Allsburg, C. The Z Was ZappedVan Allsburg, C. The Wreck of the ZephyrJOIN TEACHIFIC NOW AND SAVE!Join Teachific today. Access thousands of resources and a growing number of 'anytime' courses within your membership.FURTHER INFORMATIONTune in to "Teacher's Tool Kit For Literacy," a free podcast where accomplished literacy educator Sharon Callen and her team share valuable insights and tips. With over 30 years of experience, they provide strategic learning solutions to empower teachers and leaders worldwide. Subscribe on your favourite platform for exclusive literacy learning content. Apple, Spotify, Google, YouTubeRead our insightful blogs, which make valuable connections between resources, podcasts and courses.Visit our Cue Learning website and sign up for the Teacher's Toolkit Weekly newsletter to stay updated on resources, events and discover how Cue can support you and your school.Explore Teachific, our vast collection of PDF resources, to enhance your teaching toolkit. And get even more support from our growing number of 'anytime' online courses.Connect with the latest news and other educators by joining our Teacher's Toolkit Facebook groupExplore upcoming live or online webinar eventsHave questions or feedback? Reach out to us directly at admin@cuelearning.com.au.
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    35 mins