5 Reasons to Use Read Alouds with Movie Adaptations in Upper Elementary

I've know teachers with verrrry different opinions on this. But I LOVE reading books to my class that are based on movies. I've found that engagement is UP, not down, when they already know the story. Even if the move isn't Rated G for classroom viewing, it's still fun to use if it's popular. Here are a few reasons why!

5 Reasons to Use Read Alouds with Movie Adaptations

1. Conversations are rich

We can have deep conversations that compare the book to the movie. There are usually differences in plot, characters, etc. and students are quick to pick up on those. 

2. Comprehension is up

Even if the movie plot is slightly different, comprehension is UP. For struggling readers, this is a real confidence boost. 

3. Students are excited to read

Students get excited before even starting the book! If they already love the movie, they will think it's great fun to read the story too. 

4. Visualization

This is sometimes a tricky concept to teach, but I've had wonderful conversations with students when their visuals of the book didn't match the movie. 

5. Connections to home life

Chances are, if a students has watched a movie, their family has as well. You can encourage students to talk about the book/movie with their families ad discuss their learning. Any time you can bridge the gap between school and home it is GOOD. 

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Reading to your students is so so important and it’s FUN! I hope you can use some of these suggestions soon. If you need suggestions for WHAT to read, check out my lists for third, fourth, and fifth grade here!

I would also love to hear your tips for read aloud time! Please connect with me here in the comments or on instagram at @fifthintheforest. 

 

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