Ms. Neuman prepares the class before reading aloud. This may be done a day before, or the same day. The steps are based on the KWL method. K = What I Know, W = What I Want to Know, and L = What I have Learned. Before reading the story, Ms. Neuman creates charts for K and W:

• K chart - children brainstorm ideas based on prior knowledge of the story;
• W chart - children's ideas and questions are prioritized (by the teacher and the group). This helps:
  • set the purpose for reading and focus on key ideas, and
  • students to be active listeners.

The KWL structure is often used for non-fiction. Additional pre-reading strategies include looking at the illustrations; anticipation of "what do you think comes next?"; and the involvement of prior or background knowledge. Just before reading aloud, make sure you give "listening advice," as well as vocabulary words to listen for. Print out a KWL chart: KWL Chart.

Watch the video: and read a transcript of the video.