Newspapers
5
13%
Novel/Chapter books,
including historical fiction,
science fiction, and fantasy
23
60%
Other
8
21%
_____________________________________________________________________
Conclusion
In this study, 63% of the teachers surveyed
reported they read aloud to their students—
and for good reasons supported in the
literature, such as it helps students with
comprehension and vocabulary development,
and because it exposes them to text they might
not read otherwise and helps build interest in
topics they are discussing in class. It is
unfortunate for the students of the 41% of the
teachers who reported they do not read aloud
that they may not aware of the abundance of
research on the positive effects of reading
aloud. Evidence of reading aloud has
repeatedly been reported to positively affect
student achievement and overall attitudes
about reading (Arial & Albright, 2006; Duncan,
2010; Routman, 1991; Smith, 1978; Tompkins,
2006; Trelease, 2006). However, just as was
found in this study, reading aloud is not
practiced routinely in many middle school
classrooms; furthermore, reading aloud in many
classrooms is scarce (Ariail & Albright, 2006;
Delo, 2008; Duncan, 2010; Tompkins, 2006;
Trelease, 2006).
The impact teachers have in motivating
students to read is worth acknowledging.
According to Giorgis (1999), “Reading aloud to
middle school and high school students
demonstrates a teacher’s enthusiasm for
reading, an attitude that can be contagious” (p.
3). Even when students may not be interested
in reading, interest can be attained when
reading aloud occurs as students become active
listeners, engaged in the story, and then
interest is sparked (Girogis, 1999). Reading
aloud to students influences students’ reading
skills including, comprehension, vocabulary,
interest in reading, positive attitudes, and
motivation to read independently (Moss et al.,
1999). According to Trelease (2006), reading
aloud increases students’ vocabulary, fluency,
grammar, pronunciation, comprehension,
spelling, and motivation. Harvey and Goudvis
(2007) conclude that “There is nothing more
powerful than a literacy teacher sharing her
passion for reading, writing, and thinking.
Passion is contagious. Kids will respond” (p. 12).
Reading aloud is important for students of
all ages. Readi