Engaging Middle School Students: How Read Alouds and Middle Grade Books Foster a Love of Reading
Discover the benefits of middle school read alouds, how they impact student learning outcomes and suggestions on how to make them fun. Learn why author visits for elementary schools can be a powerful tool in an educator's arsenal!
Attention all teachers and school librarians!
As part of my ongoing commitment to encourage a love of reading (for fun) in our kids, I have a special offer for all school librarians and teachers.
If you send me a receipt of your order of The Ice House you plan to read aloud with your class, I will schedule a free 30 minute virtual Zoom Q + A with your students at the time of your choosing this upcoming school year.
All you have to do is send a proof of your purchase (screenshot of your receipt, order, etc.) here and include your name, school, and age of your class and I will follow up with scheduling info!
As I’ve been working on my latest writing project, I’ve also been doing literacy research as part of my day job as a UX Researcher. I've been delving into studies on how to increase student engagement in reading, especially in the middle school years. In a recent post, I shared my thoughts on the research that kids reading for fun is at an all time low and my determination to do what I can to turn things around. So far, this has looked like organizing author visits and spreading awareness about proven strategies that encourage middle schoolers to read for fun.
To that end, I've been reaching out to ELA teachers and literacy coaches for interviews, and digging into research studies that provide efficacy data. In doing so, I’ve been really excited to come across research on the benefits of Read Alouds for middle schoolers. In this post, I’m synthesizing what I’ve learned both from study data and the teachers I’ve spoken to on the topic.
Disclaimer: I’m continuing to learn more about this topic, and I’m so open to feedback and ideas!
The Benefits of Read Alouds for Middle School Students
My investigations into this whole topic really came from interest in proven strategies that increase student engagement in independent reading. The research I found reminded me of my masters degree work in special education and the importance of exposing students to a variety of texts in as many forms as possible. Many teachers face expectations from their admin that make it difficult to rationalize carving valuable instructional time out to dedicate to read alouds. In fact, my own fear of surprise observation drop-ins sometimes dissuaded me from activities that I felt someone might perceive as “less than rigorous.” But the research shifted my thinking here. Important skills are being modeled and practiced during class read alouds.
When students’ only task is to listen to the story being read, not worrying about pronunciation, taking turns reading, and decoding new vocabulary, comprehension becomes the sole focus. Teachers can take advantage of the fact that many students have a higher listening capacity level than reading level.
The Power of Read Alouds: Empowering Students and Enhancing Learning
When students enter middle school, it's not uncommon for the disparity in classmates’ reading abilities to become more pronounced and challenging. For those students with learning differences or dyslexia, read alouds can serve as a communal experience where everyone in the class is engaged in the same story. Regardless of reading level, every kid in the class can participate as a listener, can contribute to classroom conversations, jot down thoughts, or reflect on what they’ve learned.
One teacher I spoke to shared that read alouds are framed as a reward for good behavior in her middle school ELA classroom. Kids start to associate listening to her read as a treat and look forward to continuing the story. When everyone in the class gets to be an active participant, it becomes a classroom bonding experience that creates positive associations. Numerous studies have found that middle school students prefer teacher read-alouds and that they can foster positive attitudes toward reading (Albright & Ariail, 2005; Ariail & Albright, 2006; Ivey, 2003).
During read-alouds, teachers become models for positive reading behaviors and provide scaffolding for connecting the text to real life (Burgess & Tracey, 2006). This method also allows for supporting student responses and guiding higher-level thinking. Additionally, read-alouds expose students to new language and literature, giving them the chance to enjoy the text without the pressure of reading solo.
How does this create more engagement? When a major part of the work of reading is removed and students are focused on listening to a story unfold, they are given the chance to get caught up in a book and its characters purely for enjoyment.
Choosing the Right Middle Grade Novel for Your Class
With the abundance of fantastic middle grade novels available, it can be overwhelming for teachers to select the best ones for their classrooms. It’s important to make informed choices based on your students and their interests and experiences, as well as the thematic goals you have in mind for classroom discussions.
The first factor to consider when picking a middle grade novel is the relatability of the characters. Can your students see themselves in the story? Can they relate to the protagonist? Is there an element of the book that could create buy-in?
Next, ponder over the theme and message of the novel. The book you choose should be capable of imparting valuable life lessons and promoting empathy and understanding among students.
The maturity level of the class should also be taken into account. Middle grade novels cover a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from light-hearted adventures to serious issues like death, racism, and bullying. It is essential to select a book that matches the class's maturity level and keeps them engaged.
Building Engagement Around Read Alouds
It’s really important that once you’ve selected your read aloud, it’s time to get your students excited about the novel! Introduce the book with enthusiasm and offer fun activities to go along with the reading. You can use the novel as a teaching tool, incorporating various activities to make the learning process more fun. For example, have students create character sketches or draw their favorite scene from the book. By making the reading experience fun, your students will be more invested in the story and will look forward to reading time in class.
References
I’ve linked some of the studies referenced in this post for you to look into further!
Tapping the Potential of Teacher Read Alouds in Middle School
Read Alouds in the School Setting
Just Plain Reading
As part of my ongoing commitment to reinvigorating a love of reading in our kids, I have a special offer for all school librarians and teachers.
If you send me a receipt of your order of The Ice House you plan to read aloud with your class, I will schedule a free 30 minute virtual Zoom Q + A with your students at the time of your choosing this upcoming school year (2023-2024).
All you have to do is send a proof of your purchase (screenshot of your receipt, order, etc.) here and I will follow up with scheduling info!
Bringing Words to Life: The Benefits of Author Visits in Elementary Schools
I’ve been getting questions lately about when to consider bringing an author into a classroom, and about whether I think author visits in elementary schools really matter for kids. I think in the abstract, the answers seem obvious, but I’ve been really thinking about my answer these days, especially when virtual author visits are becoming more and more common.
The Ice House, my middle grade novel, made its debut during the pandemic. This made connecting with readers tricky, as many traditionally in-person book sales events were either postponed, canceled, or made virtual. As a former teacher, I was expecting to be able to hear feedback (the good, and, if necessary, the bad) from real kids. I wanted to hear from teachers about how their class responded to the story of The Ice House and how in resonated with their students. Not having had as many opportunities to connect with many real middle grade readers of The Ice House initially has made a real impression on me, shaping the way I view school visits now.
As a writer, one of my favorite experiences is visiting schools to talk with students about storytelling, creativity, and the power of their words. There's something magical about walking into a classroom and seeing the spark of interest in students when they realize they're about to meet a "real author."
One of my top priorities during author visits is to help students understand that being a “real” author or writer is all about telling your own unique stories, and not about someone giving you permission to call yourself one. A writer is someone who writes. If my school visits make any impact at all, I hope it’s by encouraging kids to use their voice to tell their stories.
What is the real benefit of author visits to schools?
To be totally honest, I think a real benefit of an author visit to a school or a classroom depends on that specific group of students. For some kids, read alouds are their favorite part of the school day. They may or may not love reading, but they enjoy listening to stories, and regardless of their foundational writing skills, love playing with stories of their own. For these students, meeting someone who writes stories of their own professionally is usually pretty thrilling. They get to ask questions about the writing process, where authors come up with story ideas, and for thoughts about whether they themselves can have a career in writing one day. I’ve also noticed that kids in this group are eager to tell the visiting author their own book ideas, which is a very sweet (though sometimes time consuming) aspect of connecting with readers.
For students that don’t especially enjoy reading and who shy away from writing, the right author’s visit can have a really huge impact. When authors confess their own disinterest in certain school subjects, or their own struggles to figure out how to approach a story, or admit just how exhausting and annoying writing can sometimes be, they provide a different perspective to students. For these students, an author visit can be refreshing and inspiring, especially if they connect with the author on a personal level. Yes, reading and writing are mandatory parts of school, but shifting kids’ thought process away from required assignments to the freedom writing and reading skills afford you can make a big difference for reluctant readers and writers. Meeting someone who can embody the impact that freedom can have on someone's life can be a meaningful result of an author’s visit.
And, having been a teacher myself, I will be real with all of the teachers and librarians who struggle with behavior management issues in their classroom. Of course, an author’s visit is not going to captivate each and every student in your class. It should, at the very least, provide an enriching activity for the majority of your class. Novelty might benefit some of your students not in a space to fully benefit from an author’s visit now. For the others, I think it’s beneficial to give an author a head’s up to expect some light interruption if there are some behavior management plans that could impact the visit, but speaking from experience, authors who spend time visiting classrooms and schools will not be phased by interruptions.
Meeting and interacting with a real-life author who can share their passion, experience and knowledge will inspire some students to develop their own writing skills and potentially pursue a career in writing. They can also provide a unique insight into the writing process, which can help students understand the importance of research, planning, and editing.
When should teachers or librarians book an author visit?
Author visits can be beneficial at any time of the year. I’ve loved some October visits where school librarians have introduced me to students to get them excited about the school year ahead. It’s always nice if a class has read The Ice House and has specific questions for me about the book, so that can impact when a visit might be best as well.
I have found through conversations with my fellow authors as well as with teachers, that most author visits are a success as long as they provide the chance for students to connect with a writer and hear firsthand accounts from someone who writes for a living. Just make sure that students get to ask questions, hear advice, and get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into creating stories.
Teachers and librarians looking for ways to engage their students and promote literacy should consider booking an author visit any time they can fit one into their schedule. Many authors, including myself, are willing to work with schools to ensure these visits are accessible and affordable for all.
FAQs About Author Visits for Elementary School
Q: Why should my school consider having an author visit?
Author visits can enhance literacy skills, improve the reading culture in the school community, and promote creativity in students. It is also a great way to connect authors with readers, and students with real-world writing careers.
Q: How should I prepare my students for an author visit?
Before the visit, make sure to introduce the author and their work to your students. Read some of the author's books, watch videos of the author, and encourage discussion about their writing and the themes in their works. Additionally, remind students about appropriate behavior during the event.
Q: What will the author do during the visit?
During the visit, the author will share their writing and publishing journey, read from their books, answer questions, and participate in activities related to their books or writing in general. The author may also offer writing tips and advise students on how to become writers.
Q: How long does an author visit last?
The length of the visit can vary depending on the author's schedule and the school's preference. Some visits may last one hour, while others may go on for an entire day.
Q: Can my school afford an author visit?
Many authors offer different packages that cater to schools of different budgets. Additionally, some schools may combine resources with nearby schools to split costs and bring in an author they otherwise could not afford.
Q: How can I book an author to visit my school?
Most authors have booking information on their websites. If not, contact the author's representative, agency, or publisher. You should book an author well in advance of your desired visit date.
As an author, I come with a passion for storytelling and a wealth of knowledge about the publishing industry, and I can tailor my talks to fit the specific needs and interests of each group I work with. I can provide writing prompts and activities that will get students excited about putting their own stories on paper, or resources and tips for educators who want to encourage more reading and writing in their classrooms. If you’re interested in booking an author visit with me, please check out this link for more information!
All in all, author visits are one of my favorite parts of being a writer. Not only do I get to share my love for books and storytelling with young readers, but I get to see firsthand the impact that those visits can have on their lives. If you're a teacher or librarian looking to bring a little magic into your classroom, I encourage you to book an author visit. And if you're a writer yourself, I encourage you to embrace the opportunity to inspire the next generation of story creators. Together, we can help turn students into lifelong readers and writers who will continue to carry the magic of books with them throughout their lives.
How Author Visits Inspire Joy in Young Readers
Are you looking to add educational value and inspiration to your elementary school's reading program? Learn why author visits can have a positive impact on children’s literacy and how virtual author visits make it easier than ever for schools to connect with authors.
Author Visits and Their Impact on Elementary School Readers
Part of my day job as a UX Researcher for an edTech agency is to seek out research on educational trends. This can range from investigating regional access to devices in schools, to curriculum adoption, to learning needs trends, and student achievement.
A few weeks ago, this research led me to student survey data from Pew Research Center that stopped me in my tracks.
The number of American tweens (aged 9 to 13 years old) who report reading for fun daily is at the lowest level since "at least the mid-1980s."
Rationally, I know this shouldn't be so shocking. I'm aware of the national data around our reading levels. I've followed the discourse around learning gaps and deficits. I'm a trained special education teacher with a specialization in learning disabilities, so I'm well versed in the challenges teachers face when teaching literacy across grade levels.
The more I reflected on this finding though, the sadder I felt for all of these kids.
I understand not loving the books you're assigned in school. I remember being forced to read Flowers for Algernon in eighth grade and resenting every page. Maybe it's good? I'll never know, because I hated being made to read it.
But the thought that less and less kids are choosing to read for fun? That's troubling. It's also understandable. Our attention spans are so short now. Full disclosure, I have a hard time reading fiction these days. I struggle to get into new stories, not because they aren't great, but because of my attention is pulled in so many directions.
It's sad, not only because I'm a writer and reading is a part of my job, but also because for most of my life, reading was my favorite escape. I think so many teachers, librarians, and authors feel the same way.
As an author of middle grade books, I feel I have a unique opportunity to do something to address this disheartening trend. For middle grade readers, school visits can have a huge impact on students.
Of course I'd love it if you invited me to visit your classroom [and I am booking visits for Fall 2023!] but I'd also be so happy if this post inspires you to coordinate any author to visit your school, because I do believe hosting a guest author at your school can have a lasting impact and combat this saddening trend away from reading for fun.
How do author visits benefit middle school readers?
Author visits can benefit middle school readers in a number of ways. First, they provide an opportunity for students to connect with the author of their favorite books or stories. This connection gives students the chance to ask questions and get advice from a professional who has been through similar experiences, giving them a sense of validation and understanding.
In person visits can have a powerful impact on reluctant readers. Of course, I don't mean that just because some wonderful authors visit students in their classroom they will suddenly begin reading for fun every day. But I do believe author visits provides kids with a new perspective on writing, and a new appreciation for storytelling. It personalizes writing and brings a level of tangibility to the vague notion many kids have about authors.
Why host an author visit?
When students hear directly from authors about their writing processes and the inspiration behind their books, they begin to see reading and writing in a new light.
I've seen first hand the way kids respond to the idea that when writing a book, the author controls what happens to each character and gets to shape their own little world however they want.
I'll never forget one particular Q & A exchange I had with a fifth grader at the end of an author visit.
He asked, with a skeptical tone, why a major plot point in The Ice House, my middle grade novel, unfolded the way it did. My answer: Well, because that's what I wanted to happen, and I wrote it, so I made the decision.
His response: Woah. Cool.
Hate to admit that I felt validated that a fifth grader thought anything I had to say was cool, but I did. More importantly, in that moment I could see a spark of creativity ignite.
Getting to meet someone who has written a book you've read is a memorable experience.
I never had an author come into my classroom as a kid, and I never thought I could be a writer professionally. There's probably a correlation of some sort there.
I want every kid to believe that they can be an author one day if that's what they want. I think the first step is for kids to meet a “real” author, and to get a sense of how the writing process works: why writers write, the fun and freedom that comes with storytelling.
I've gotten feedback time and again that my author visits have helped kids connect with books in a new way.
They've met and spoken to a real person who has explained the ins and outs of writing a book, and they begin to think about choices authors make in other books they've read. Not because they're being quizzed, but because they're interested.
It translates to their writing, as well. They begin to think about the stories they'd write and the decisions they'd make.
One of the most significant benefits of author visits is that kids read more as a result.
Teachers and school librarians have told me that The Ice House gets checked out repeatedly after my author visits. I've heard the same from fellow middle grade authors about their own books. My hypothesis? Meeting authors sparks kids' interest in stories in a unique way.
By hearing an author's personal story about the process of writing and publishing a book, students make connections between a book and an actual human being. This tangible example of how and why books are written from a writer of a book they've seen in person, maybe even read, engages young readers, including the reluctant ones.
I always explain that my love of writing goes hand in hand with a love of reading. When I talk about the impact my favorite books had on me throughout my childhood, kids begin to explore their own relationships with books, which leads them to seek out new stories in their classroom or school library.
During my author visits, I talk about my own favorite books from when I was the students' age, but I also cover my favorite current children's books. I give a little review and explain what I liked about each of them. The result? Kids check those books out right away.
Successful Visits
Whether you book an author for a virtual visit or an in person visit that includes a longer author presentation, there are some key aspects of an author visit that will ensure it is a wonderful experience. Make sure that you coordinate with the visiting author to make sure that your students have time for questions and receive some writing tips. Some authors are happy to provide a presentation that is more of a writing workshop format for a smaller group of students, like individual classroom visits. As a writer of middle grade novels, I recommend this for middle schoolers especially. They respond really well to getting insight into how authors approach a writing project, and tend to become especially enthusiastic about their own stories as a result.
Resources
I’m providing some links to resources to support you as you research how to best facilitate author visits for your class.
My hope is that by partnering with teachers, librarians, and families to increase author visits in elementary schools across the country, we'll begin to reinvigorate a love of reading in kids and encourage a new generation of lifelong readers.
If you're thinking of arranging an author visit at your school, please learn more about my author visits here and email me with any questions. I'd be so happy to provide a memorable learning experience for your students!