Learning with Readers Theatre: Building Connections

Renée B. Meloche is an instructional consultant with the Halton Board
of Education.

This book describes the classroom use of an instructional strategy known
as Readers Theatre. The main purpose of this strategy is to promote
learning through oral expression. Two or more readers interpret a script
based on stories, opinions, ideas, or information. Readers Theatre is
acting with the voice—without scenery, makeup, or props.

The authors offer practical ideas for warm-up activities (oral
interpretation, storytelling) to prepare the students for the main
event. They clearly explain the process of Readers Theatre from the
perspectives of teachers, students, and parents. Helpful options for
scripts, staging, and sharing the presentation are provided, along with
suggested curriculum tie-ins and evaluation tips. The diagrams, samples,
and reproducibles are informative and will facilitate initiating this
strategy in the classroom.