Sunday, May 9, 2010

Talking Titles

Right after finishing a book, ask your preschooler why he thinks the author chose that particular name for the book. You might ask, “Do you think Corduroy is a good name for this book? Why or why not?” Have your child try to explain his opinion. You can ask questions to help him think about the reasons. For example, you could say, “Lisa is the girl in the book. Why do you think the author didn’t name this book Lisa?” Then ask your preschooler, “Can you think of another title that would be good for this book?” Have some fun together, coming up with some alternative titles.

3 comments:

  1. I must give you KUDOs for reading to your children and getting their little minds attuned to comprehending what has been read. First because I volunteer teach literacy and ESL to adults and you would be surprised at the number who do not know how. As far as the comprehension, I myself have to read something over and over again several times to be able to comprehend and retain what I had just read, and that is not only frustrating, but embarrassing. So my hat's off to you. Good Job! I am ashamed to say the last couple of weeks, I have been a hit and miss at BlognTweet, so hopefully, things have calmed down enough around my house to be more steady here at BlogFrog. Nice Meeting you!

    God Bless!

    PJ

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  2. Thanks, PJ. I am glad you stopped by. Comprehension is a pretty difficult feat!
    Madeline

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  3. I like this idea. I've never thought of it before. What a great way to consider main idea or most important character etc.
    The conversation and thought process involved in evaluating a title is sure to get a child thinking. Thanks for the great idea!
    A parent has so many one on one learning opportunities with a child. I hope some parents take the opportunity to talk about titles of some books they read with their children. It will have an impact on their reading comprehension for sure!

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What I think . . .

There are all kinds of readers. Some—like my daughter and me—are never without a book to read for pleasure. Others—like my son—are careful, analytical, and curious readers who read primarily to seek information from the page.


No matter what kind of reader your child becomes, you can help him or her get started. After all, you are your child’s first teacher. And, best of all, you can have some fun in the process.


Please feel free to share your own ideas. Tell me about ways you've enjoyed reading with your child.


Madeline Boskey, Ph.D.