A Beginner's Guide to Readers Theater in the Classroom

Reader’s Theater is how to bring a dynamic and interactive element to your classroom. Don’t worry if you’re new to this – I wrote a step-by-step guide to how to get started.

Readers Theater’s: A Guide

This guide will help you get started right away!

Step 1: Choose a Script

Start by selecting a Reader’s Theater script. Look for short stories, fairy tales, or Aesop’s fables. I like to have a few options so students can pick a story they are most excited to read.

Step 2: Assign Roles

Divide your students into groups, assigning different roles to each member. These could include the main characters and narrators. If you run out of parts, you can pick another script or split the narrator’s role.

After you assign a role, give them a character hat. They can decorate the hat by coloring the picture.

Step 3: Practice Reading Aloud

Have students practice reading their lines aloud. Encourage them to focus on expression, tone, and pacing. It’s all about bringing the characters to life! You may have to model this for them and give them multiple opportunities to practice.

Step 4: Add Gestures and Movements

Encourage students to use gestures and simple movements that match their characters’ emotions. This enhances prosody and comprehension.

Step 5: Rehearse Together

Bring the groups together to rehearse so students can practice reading their lines and work on timing. This will help them develop their active listening skills, too!

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Step 6: Emphasize Fluency

Reader’s Theater is an excellent tool for developing fluency. Fluency is the ability to read with accuracy, fluency, and expression. Model how to read with expression and natural rhythm.

Step 7: Perform!

Now comes the exciting part – the performance! Whether in front of the class, other classes, or even parents, students showcase their reading skills and teamwork.