I really like the way Bruce Lansky describes Reader's Theater. He explains that students take on different roles when reading a story: one reader for each character and one reader to be the narrator. This helps students tackle reading that may be too long or complicated to do alone. It also allows English Language Learners to practice speaking (one way to strengthen language acquisition). This activity will also strengthen your reader(s) fluency, inflection, and expressiveness. I think it is more fun to act out the story, especially if I can dress up to do it!
These steps are an amended approach. There are many Reader's Theater scripts and detailed procedures to follow but my point is this: don't stress, just have fun with it! (for those who are interested in more visit Rick Swallow's page for printable scripts.)
1. Decide who will be who (characters and narrators). If there are only two of you, one of you can be all the characters while the other is narrator. Be sure the reader acts out character voices as he/she reads. Don't be afraid to get into it!
2. Begin reading the text side-by-side. The first few time will be rough but keep practicing. Eventually you will be able to recite the story without the words in front of you. This is especially cool because then you can "read" in the car by performing a well known Reader's Theater.
3. When you are well rehearsed in your part try to change parts. This will be hard and will create lots of laughter and funniness as you read parts that are no longer yours. Have fun with it!
Watch this example by ThePatiences of students performing Reader's Theater. Remember, this is a formal presentation. What you are doing with your reader(s) should be for fun and practice.
As an extension to this strategy consider making these craft puppets to use for a puppet Reader's Theater. The website SPROUT suggests using a lot of craft products. I say some pens and a paper bag are fine. Adapt the craft as you wish.
What teachers might do in class is not reasonable for home, but if you want to know more about the detailed strategy visit ReadWriteThink's lesson plan using this strategy.
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