Engaging Pre-Service Teachers in Interactive Social Justice-Themed Read-Alouds

Abstract

Reading aloud is a time-honored tradition that has worked its way from home environments to school settings. Shared reading experiences, like read-alouds, stimulate memories and experiences as well as inspire new connections and perspectives. Even if only for a short time, read-alouds expand readers’ horizons while simultaneously making sense of their own worlds. One by one, each read aloud experience cultivates a classroom into a community of empathetic readers. In a society where social justice efforts are constantly questioned, challenged, and advocated for, it is no surprise that these conversations are making their way into schools across the country, including post-secondary institutions. Children’s literature serves as a non-threatening tool to address and discuss social justice topics that reflect the current societal climate of the United States.