All About Dialogic Reading

Dialogic Reading Link   is an evidence-based interactive shared-reading practice that teachers and families can use to enhance children’s oral language development. It involves using the same book multiple times to progress through three levels of questioning with small groups or individual children. Dialogic Reading introduces new vocabulary, supports  comprehension, and develops creative and critical thinking skills.  All children benefit from engaging in Dialogic Reading, and with the right modifications, adaptations and supports, can fully participate in these experiences. Dialogic Reading involves a lot of child talk. Be sure to give children time to formulate their thoughts, alternative ways to respond when needed, and follow their lead as you navigate through the story. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, HAVE FUN! Children get the most out of reading together when adults are genuinely present and enjoying the activity with them.

Here’s a video example of Dialogic Reading in action: Good Enough To Eat YouTube

Some books are more effective for Dialogic Reading than others.  When selecting books, be sure to look for those with:

1. Rich illustrations that carry the story
2. Interesting characters that appeal to children
3. Situations that require thinking or problem-solving
4. Word play or rhymes, so you can draw attention to the sounds of words
5. Big enough print so children can see when you can point to words from time to time

Here’s a resource to get you started: Dialogic Reading Book List

 

Topics in Early Childhood Special Education
2017, Vol. 37(3) 132–146, Dialogic Reading in Early Childhood Settings: A Summary of the Evidence Base
© Hammill Institute on Disabilities 2017
Reprints and permissions:
sagepub.com/journalsPermissions.nav
DOI: 10.1177/0271121417724875
tecse.sagepub.com

Ask a question today!

Lynne Hall is a research associate at the Indiana Institute on Disability & Community’s Early Childhood Center. She holds a Master of Science in Education and an Indiana instructional teaching license (Early Childhood Education and Services; Elementary/Primary Generalist; Elementary/Intermediate Generalist), and formerly taught preschool in a variety of settings for over 15 years. Her expertise includes early literacy instruction and inclusive preschool classroom practices. Email her at hallma@iu.edu