ENGLISH READING GUIDE
Reading aloud versus reading together
Reading aloud gives a child language and story to listen to. Reading together adds the child’s own voice, pronunciation and conversation. The two approaches can work together.
01
Reading aloud centres on listening
When an adult reads the text, the child receives the story through pictures and sound. It works before independent reading begins and provides complete phrases, rhythm and expression. Pausing to notice a picture or predict the next event can add conversation.
02
Reading together gives the child a voice
Reading together means the adult is not the only reader. You alternate a page or a sentence, help when a word blocks progress, model a sound briefly and return to the story.
This is the Reading Hour approach: a child hears British English, reads aloud, checks meaning and talks about characters within one shared book.
03
Match the approach to the moment
On a tired day the adult may read more. When the child starts following the text, invite more turn-taking. The aim is not a fixed quota but active participation in both the language and the story.