Contextualize reading. Discuss the setting or situation of a book before you actually begin to read it. Explain the main theme or conflict (without spoiling the plot, of course) to help children understand the context for the story and begin to make connections between the events of the narrative and happenings or experiences in their own lives.
Discuss the book or chapter after it is read. Advise students that a discussion will occur after the read-aloud session so they pay attention. After-reading discussions encourage students to think critically about texts and understand their practical applications. They teach children that stories, even if fictional, present lessons and themes that have application beyond the pages of the book.
Use visual aids or props to read aloud. For instance, use puppets or masks to represent different characters. Also, use facial expressions and gestures during reading. Raise your brows to convey surprise, shiver to convey cold or wipe your brow to convey heat. Visual aids reinforce the story and provide students with visual, as well as oral, stimulation.
Animate reading aloud with voices and sound effects. Use silly and scary voices for different characters. Imitate animals, babies, elderly characters or whatever kinds of sounds the narrative invokes. Make a whistling sound to signal wind or clap your hands to signal a banging sound. Pause the story to invite children to join you to mimic a sound.
Read diverse stories to interest and engage students rather than reading the same books or genres all the time. Include stories about diverse themes and conflicts, involving sports, family and personal life, school and other situations to which children can relate. Vary read-aloud stories to appeal to both genders. Introduce students to new cultures and traditions in reading as well.