Rethinking Read-Alouds: Why They Matter More Than Ever

What if one of the most powerful literacy practices was also one of the most fun? Read-alouds often get sidelined as students get older or get treated as an “extra” in the instructional day, but research suggests that read-alouds are still impactful in upper grades. We explore insights from educator and author Molly Ness, who makes the case that read-alouds are essential for building background knowledge, expanding vocabulary, and developing comprehension.

"All About Read-Alouds with Molly Ness"

Read-alouds aren’t just for early grades or cozy corners. They’re a research-based powerhouse for language comprehension across all content areas. In this episode, educator and author Molly Ness unpacks what makes read-alouds so effective and how to plan them with intention. From her three-step protocol (Evaluate, Explain, Engage) to examples that span Grades K–8 and every subject, from art to PE, Molly offers a compelling case for why read-alouds should remain a daily part of classroom life. She also shares surprising research on the emotional and physiological benefits of read-alouds.

Three-Step Protocol of Evaluate, Explain, and Engage

• Evaluate: Before reading, gain an understanding of students’ background knowledge and where they may have gaps, including with vocabulary.
• Explain: During the read‑aloud, use think‑alouds and clearly articulate complex thoughts or define unfamiliar vocabulary to guide learners’ comprehension.
• Engage: After reading, involve students in thoughtful discussions and activities that deepen comprehension.
  
  

Listen now to discover how read-alouds support comprehension and build knowledge.

• How do you currently plan your read-alouds?
  • What are you seeing as you listen or observe? Are certain words tripping students up, is there missing knowledge, or are there spots where instruction needs to slow down?
• In what ways could read-alouds be used more intentionally in content areas such as science, social studies, or even PE?
• What happens when you share your thinking out loud? How might regular think-alouds help students better understand the reading process?
  
  

Classroom Move to Try

During a read-aloud, pause to model a think-aloud.

Shape Stronger Readers, One Read-Aloud at a Time

In Great Minds® ELA curricula, read-alouds remain an essential strategy for helping students engage meaningfully with complex texts. Whether modeling fluency, building background knowledge, or supporting comprehension, a well-timed read-aloud opens the door to productive struggle without diminishing it.

• In Arts & Letters™, teacher–writers have deliberately selected texts to stretch students’ thinking and deepen their understanding. Rather than replacing challenging texts, read-alouds can offer access while preserving the integrity of the content.
• Similarly, in Wit & Wisdom®, a read-aloud might precede a partner reread or fluency passage work, ensuring all students grapple with rich language and ideas. As educators, what we choose to read aloud, and how we do it, shapes how our students experience the power and potential of literature.