What is the purpose of engaging students in expressive choral reading of a poem?

Engaging students in expressive choral reading of a poem primarily serves to develop fluency and expressive reading skills. Choral reading encourages students to read together as a group, which can create a supportive environment that boosts confidence and promotes a sense of community. This practice allows students to focus on rhythm, intonation, and expression collectively, helping them to interpret the emotional nuances of the poem.

Through this method, students practice decoding words and phrases quickly, which naturally enhances their reading fluency. As they participate in a shared reading experience, they also learn to convey meaning through their voice, further developing their expressive reading skills. Together, these elements are crucial for building a deeper understanding of the text and enjoying the reading process itself.

While improving vocabulary, enhancing comprehension, and analyzing themes are all valuable educational goals, the primary focus of expressive choral reading is on fluency and expressiveness in reading.