What is choral reading?

Choral reading is a strategy where a group of readers reads aloud a text together. It's not simply everyone reading the same text at the same time; it's a more nuanced activity involving different parts or voices reading different sections or lines, sometimes with varied intonation and pacing to create a dramatic or expressive reading.

Here's a breakdown of key aspects:

* Group Reading: Multiple readers participate, creating a richer auditory experience than a single reader.

* Assigned Parts: The text is often divided into different parts, with individuals or small groups assigned to specific sections. This can be based on characters, perspectives, or even emotional tone.

* Expressive Reading: Readers are encouraged to use vocal expression, including changes in pace, volume, and tone, to bring the text to life. This adds emphasis and creates a more engaging experience for both the readers and the audience.

* Collaboration & Teamwork: Successful choral reading relies on collaboration and coordination between readers. They need to practice together and synchronize their reading to create a unified performance.

* Various Purposes: Choral reading can be used for fluency practice, dramatic interpretation, enhancing comprehension, building confidence, and creating a shared experience among participants.

In short, choral reading is a powerful tool for engaging students (or any group) with text, fostering teamwork, and bringing literature to life through shared vocal expression.