Page 65 - 2017 Reading Summit Guidebook

Student Educator
Student Booktalk Tips
Top 10 Tips for Coaching the Perfect Booktalk
Because you're an educator, we know you want your students to shine. We also know that readRineg,awdrityinog,uarndbpouoblkic stpheoakriongucgahn lbye. difficult for some students. Here are
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some tips to help students create booktalks they’ll deliver with pride:
You might even want to take notes if inspiration strikes while you are reading! Make sure this is a book you love; if you’d rate it less than an eight out of 10, find
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Be a booktalk model. Demonstrate the right attitude toward booktalks by performing a different book!
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Open strong!
them yourself, often, and with enthusiasm. Let them see how much you enjoy sharing books with them in this special way!
Let students booktalk books they really love. A genuine recommendation comes
Think about starting your booktalk by asking a question: “What scares you the
from genuine enthusiasm for a book. Although you can certainly guide your students in
most?” Or start by giving your thoughts on a character you loved: “This is the
making their selections, be sure that their choices are ultimately their own.
bravest dog I’ve ever met.” Don’t start with something predictable like, “This book is called...” or “This book is about...” Surprise and excite your audience!
Give them time to work on their writing during class. For some students, writing
the booktalk can be the scariest part of the process. If time permits, let them do some of the
writing in class when you are available to offer guidance and support.
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Find a hook.
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Encourage small-group rehearsals. Speaking in front of large audiences can be difficultefosrpeevceinalyloyuirnmteorsetsotuytoguoirnpgesteurdse?nPtse.rHhavpesththeemrep’rsacintitceninsefromnatgoficju,satnaafedwoorathbeler studentsd,ogro,noer-oant-aolneen,tuendtilstuhrefyerfe?eTlhcoinmkfoarbtaobuletethnoeuagshpteocsthsaorefwthitehtshtoerwyhtohleatclmasas.deit
Consider your audience. Is there some element of this story that you know will
engaging for you.
Promote strong listening skills. Performing to a disinterested audience is a challenge.
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Ask prompting questions. Sometimes, even well-rehearsed students freeze up. If a
End with a cliffhanger such as, “Will he get out in time?” Remember, the idea is
Remind students to be courteous – still, silent, and focused – while others booktalk. Don’t
forgetthDeoapnp’latugsei!veitallaway.
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Think of this like a preview, not a whole movie. Leave them begging for more!
student is struggling to recall his or her booktalk, jump in and ask questions like, “What are
to get them interested enough to want to read the book.
some similar books to this?” or “What drew you to pick up and read this book?”
Allow notes when needed. Although an ideal booktalk is so well rehearsed the speaker Enhance your presentation with props.
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Give positive feedback. Even if a student forgets her cliffhanger, mispronounces the
“If you liked _____, then you’ll love this!” Think of a similar book which you know
do5es not need written prompts, it’s okay to permit students to read from notes if they need
them. QCuiacrkrynoatnesuamndbbreullaetfpoorinatsbonoikndaebxocuatrdas rcainybedhaeyl,pofurl wfoer astruadecnatps tforeacabllook about
character names, dates, and other details they don’t want to forget.
baseball. Be creative! Just be sure not to wear anything that will muffle your sound, such as a mask. What you are saying is much more important than how
Create a positive booktalking environment in the room. Post on your door a you look!
sign that reads, “Booktalks in Progress.” Ask the school office to hold any notes or passes. Avoid interruptions.
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Suggest other great reads.
author’s name, or never looks up from her notes, let her know you appreciate her effort and
was a hit in your school or classroom.
emphasize at least one thing she did well.
When possible, do not grade bookHtalkas.vBoeoktaflkus arenbe!st when given as a true, joyful reaction to a book. When students know they are being graded, they may perform
booktalks which are technically flawless b
as
their personalities shine;
et try using booktalks as a tool only to foster a love of reading.
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