Selecting and Using Stories for Language Teaching

Quality in Stories

How Do We Assess a Story's Value?

If a story captivates children, it can be a powerful language teaching tool. While enjoyment is key, not all good stories align with teaching objectives.

Choosing a New Story

• Values and Attitudes: Ensure appropriateness for students.
• Structure: Prototypical story structures enhance understanding.
• Dialogue/Narrative: Narratives offer grammar patterns; dialogue aids conversational skills.
• Language Use: Vocabulary repetition is beneficial. Use stories with familiar or new vocabulary.

New Language Considerations

• Previously learned language for recycling.
• New language for active processing.
• Optional new language based on interest.

Reading Tips

• Select stories based on quality and children's interest.
• Pre-teach difficult vocabulary using flashcards and pronunciation practice.
• Preview pictures to set the stage.
• Read aloud with engaging rhythm, melody, and pronunciation.
• Encourage active participation (picture description, etc.).
• Ask comprehension questions post-reading.
• Anticipate and welcome questions.
• Dramatize story roles.
• Use activities like drawing, sequencing, and matching.
• Incorporate reading-based games (guessing, pronunciation competitions).

Maintain motivation through frequent reading. Aim for daily sessions if possible.