First Graders Learn the Ropes of Read-Alouds

First graders have been participating in various read-alouds to kick off the school year! First, they reviewed the expectations during reading time, including listening respectfully and raising their hands to speak. Then, they practiced using their "silent signals" to show when they connect with stories, including by nodding their head or using their "I agree" hand motion. They even took part in turn-and-talks, where they turned and chatted with a partner to relate about a specific part of a book. After their turn-and-talks, they discussed what it looks like, sounds like, and feels like to take turns and listen to one another. With the use of read-aloud books, classes foster literacy by developing skills like vocabulary, comprehension, mutual respect, and a love for reading through shared experiences and discussion.