Short Stories 2.6


Here are some suggestions for reading that will help you and your pupils experience a pleasant and productive time.


1.	Follow through with the reading. If you start a story, finish it unless it is a book that does not interest your pupils. If you skip the story for a few days, the pupils will not be able to sustain their interest.	1.	Don't continue reading a story once it is obvious that it is a poor choice: too boring, too difficult in the use of language etc.
2.	If you don't have time to finish reading a story, stop at a point of suspense so that the pupils will look forward eagerly to the remainder of the story.	2.	Don't feel that you have to tie every book to homework or classwork.
3.	Occasionally select stories slightly above pupils' intellectual or academic level to challenge them, but do not select one that is above their emotional level.	3.	It is sometimes not advisable to select a story that your pupils have already seen on TV or in cinemas. Once the plot of the story is known, much of the interest is lost. However, you can let them read the story before it is televised. Help them see that more of the story can be portrayed in print than on the screen. Discussion can be done afterward to compare the two versions.
4.	Allow time for discussion after each story to develop pupils' critical thinking skills, but don't insist on turning it into a quiz or serious interpretation exercise which will take away the enjoyment of the experience.	4.	Don't start a story if you don't have time to finish it. Stopping half way can be frustrating rather than stimulating for young pupils.
5.	Provide a special time for silent reading of stories. This helps pupils develop a reading habit and can be used as a cool down activity after recess or lunch break.	5.	Don't be upset if your pupils interrupt the telling/reading of a story with questions. There is no time limit on reading a story but there is a time limit on children's curiosity. Foster their curiosity!
		6.	Never use a story as a threat: "Sit properly or there will be no story today!" The story is then perceived by your pupils as a weapon of the teacher, not as a tool of learning and an instrument of fun.