Encouraging Discussion With Read-Alouds

When reading aloud to children ask questions that make them discuss the book, not just answer a simple yes or no. Questions that begin with “what” are better than questions that begin with “why” for starting discussions. Encourage children to use their imagination and thinking skills.

During the story, occasionally stop and ask:

1. What do you think might happen next in the story?

2. What would you do?

3. What did you like about the story? What didn’t you like about the story?

4. What surprised you?

5. What made you feel happy, sad, scared, excited?

6. What will you remember about the story tomorrow?

7. What new or different ending would you make up for the story?

8. What character in the story did you like the best? What did you like about the character?

9. What new words did you hear or learn?

10. What was your favorite picture and why?

11. What would you need to write a story like this?