Retelling

Unlike many other after-reading strategies, retelling can quickly be integrated into a myriad of other strategies. By modelling an effective retelling numerous times, you help students think about texts in a way that logically flows, establishes a more coherent theme, and expands their understanding ( and prediction abilities) of a typical plot structure. General confidence levels can also be boosted through this process; discussion-based activities will benefit from the students' increased comfort with speaking in front of classmates.

The simplicity of this strategy and the ease of integration into larger debrief strategies makes it an ideal option for building a sense of community while helping struggling readers openly participate in discourse with their peers.

"Students use retellings to help them be more specific in their summarizing, get more organized, discover main ideas and supporting details, and become aware of their audience, use of language, and personal responses to the readings." (152)

Beers, Kylene. 2003. When kids can't read: What teachers can do. Heinemann.