Interactive read alouds are an important component of a balanced literacy classroom. Research proves the value of reading aloud to students of all ages, and that students benefit from being read aloud to several times throughout a week. Thoughtful planning of an interactive read aloud is critical for its success. Teachers need to select a text that is both meaningful and engaging, and it is important to consider how the text will support lessons, units, or themes the class is working on. Thought-provoking questions are essential to every interactive read aloud. Using the Revised Bloom's Taxonomy Cognitive Dimensions is one way to ensure students will take part in a variety of discussions from understanding the plot of the story to analyzing the author's message.
This week’s interactive read aloud uses the book Those Shoes by Maribeth Boelts. Those Shoes is a touching story that shows students the difference between wants vs. needs and the importance of giving rather than receiving. Boelts also explores feelings of embarrassment and disappointment children face when financial circumstances prevent them from obtaining the hottest fads. This is a story that every child can relate to. I suggest teachers use the Critical Thinking Interactive Read Aloud with Those Shoes to kick off the school year or throughout the holiday seasons!
Jeremy desperately wants the shoes all of his friends are wearing at school, but his family can't afford them. When his shoes fall apart, he gets a pair of "those shoes" from a thrift store that are too small for his feet. In this heartwarming story, Jeremy learns an important lesson about what we want versus what we need.