Today's Reading Tip: Ask Questions!

So sorry for the lack of posts these past few days, but life was getting crazy! Now, back to Today's Reading Tip!

Today's tip is in regards to asking questions to help your child retain comprehension of what was read.  I created some cute little question owls, and for the life of me can not seem to find them now!  Anyways, I would love to tell you how to make your own. 

Here is what you will need:

• 6 tongue depressors OR popsicle sticks
• 6 owl stencils cut out on cardstock or very heavy paper
• a sharpie
• some white glue

First, take the owl template you can find HERE and print out 6 each (or use your own template).  One per sheet in the largest size you can accommodate.  Then, write one of the 6 question words on the owls in large letters across the torso (one word on each owl)

1. WHO
2. WHAT
3. WHERE
4. WHEN
5. WHY
6. HOW

Next, you can choose to laminate your owls if you wish and then cut them out.  Once they are cut you are ready to glue them on the sticks and use them with your child.

Here are some ways I use mine in the classroom and at home with LoLo:

• As we read I occasional stop and hold up a sign and ask a question, such as: "WHO stole the cookie?"
• If my students have a question as I am reading they can hold up an owl and ask me a quesion.  Example, Leah held up the WHAT owl and asked "what happened to the troll under the bridge?"
• At the end of the story I use the owls to recap.  I hold up each one and ask a specific question.  Example, "WHO is the main character," "WHERE did the story take place," etc.

Once you have made your owls, tell me HOW will you use them?