Popcorn reading, also known as “round-robin reading,” is a traditional reading activity that has lasted for over two centuries.
Classroom
7 Alternatives to Popcorn Reading
Popcorn reading, also known as “round-robin reading,” is a traditional reading activity that has lasted for over two centuries.
Despite the evidence that the practice is ineffective for enhancing fluency, word decoding, and reading comprehension, popcorn reading’s popularity among K-8 teachers still endures. This article will explore seven alternatives to Popcorn Reading that teachers can implement in their classes, regardless of age or grade level.
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What is popcorn reading?
For those unfamiliar with popcorn reading, the process usually involves having a child read orally in front of a class and then calling out “popcorn” once he or she decides to stop. Afterward, the student selects another classmate to read the rest of the text. Aside from the transition from one reader to the next, popcorn reading differs very little from the old-fashioned round-robin style. There are also other variations to popcorn reading, such as:
- Combat reading: a student nominates another classmate to read the rest of the text, hoping to catch him or her off guard during the process.
- Touch-and-go reading: instead of using the word “popcorn” or calling out someone else, the instructor taps a random student to signal when it’s their turn to read.
- Popsicle stick reading: students’ names are written down on popsicle sticks (or pieces of paper), placed in a can, then drawn randomly to determine who reads next.
As seen from these examples, only the selection of readers differs between each method, but the purpose and the effect remain the same. A student must read a text for a set time before the class until another reader is chosen.
According to a Medium article released by the Heinemann Publishing company, popcorn reading and its variations cause frustration both for the reader and the listeners, especially when the former struggles with the assigned material. Imagine the anxiety this causes to a child who – for example – just recently immigrated from a non-English speaking country to America. Learning a second language is difficult enough, but performing it in front of others can be quite nerve-wracking, especially for younger students.
7 alternatives to popcorn reading
Fortunately, there are other, much more effective alternatives to popcorn reading that can be easily implemented in any classroom environment. These techniques differ fundamentally from the rigid, restrictive nature of popcorn reading. The methods in this list empower students with the necessary breathing room to make mistakes and explore the richness of the English language. After all, if learning stops rewarding children with enriching opportunities, then what’s the point?
1. Peer-assisted learning strategies (PALS)
Perhaps the simplest and most rewarding of popcorn reading alternatives, the PALS method utilizes teamwork between pairs of students assigned to help and guide each other. These partners usually consist of a more experienced reader who tutors another struggling student. They improve each other’s reading accuracy, fluency, and comprehension. It’s also a good way of forging lasting friendships.
2. Choral reading
One of the main disadvantages of popcorn and round-robin reading is putting a student on the spot. Being forced to perform in front of others can be very stressful to some children, and that added anxiety will only become detrimental to a student’s capacity to learn. Having the entire class read an assigned text in unison makes this stage fright virtually non-existent. A 2011 study found that 16 minutes of choral reading per week improves comprehension and fluency among adolescent students.
3. Silent reading
Sometimes, the best solution is the simplest one. According to research by Jamie Quinn of Rowan University, sustained silent reading programs coupled with self-monitoring strategies enhance eloquence and comprehension among reluctant readers.
4. Echo reading
This time, the teacher takes charge by reading gradually, pronouncing the words with the correct inflection so that the students can follow along. During the session, the teacher should pause occasionally to ask questions that test the class’s reading comprehension skills.
5. Model reading
The proliferation of new digital audiobooks can serve an important function in this exercise. Playing age-appropriate podcast episodes showcases how a skilled reader recites the text, allowing the students to absorb each inflection and correct the pronunciation of words. Like the echo reading approach, the teacher can also read the text in front of the class, allowing for greater control over the discussion.
6. Reader’s theater
This approach is a bit more dynamic than the previous methods since it requires the active participation of students willing to act out certain character roles. Unlike traditional stage plays, reader’s theater does not require props or make-up to function – all it needs is a script for the students to read and enjoy.
7. Fluency-Oriented Reading Instruction
Fluency-oriented reading instruction (FORI) is a method that aims to improve oral reading competency. Over a week, students are required to read assigned materials using three different strategies:
- Echo reading: the teacher reads a few sentences, and the students respond by reading the same section.
- Choral reading: The students read the material with the teacher this time.
- Paired reading: now split into pairs, students take turns reading the text aloud. While one partner reads, the other observes whether words were missed or read incorrectly. After the reading ends, students evaluate each other’s performance and provide constructive criticism.
FORI can be implemented both in the classroom and at home, and parents are also encouraged to give their children spaces that are conducive to reading aloud. Extension activities can be implemented throughout the week to give students more time to learn at their own pace.
Encouraging students to read requires a sense of play
The teacher must ensure that students feel comfortable enough to improve their skills without being stressed out by performance anxiety. Hopefully, the methods listed here can inspire more inventive and dynamic reading sessions in your classroom.
Reading is supposed to be fun, and this is perhaps the greatest lesson any instructor can give.
