Listening and Responding to Stories
Listening and Responding to Stories Objective: The student will listen attentively to a short story read aloud and demonstrate understanding by answering questions and retelling key details.
Learning Objectives
- The student will demonstrate active listening skills by sitting quietly and focusing on the story.
- The student will recall and describe key details from the story after listening.
- The student will answer simple questions about the story to show comprehension.
Materials Needed
- A children’s picture book or short story appropriate for 1st grade
- Paper and crayons or markers
- Quiet, comfortable reading space
Key Vocabulary
- Listen
- To pay close attention to the sounds or words someone is saying.
- Story
- A description of real or imagined events told to entertain or teach.
- Answer
- To say or write back a response to a question.
Detailed Activities
Story Listening and Discussion
- Find a quiet and comfortable place for reading with your child.
- Read the chosen picture book or short story aloud slowly and clearly.
- Pause occasionally to show pictures and ask simple questions like, ‘What do you think will happen next?’
- After finishing the story, ask your child to retell the story in their own words.
- Encourage your child to answer questions about the story such as ‘Who were the characters?’ and ‘What was your favorite part?’.
- Invite your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene from the story.
Parent & Instructor Notes
- This lesson encourages listening skills and comprehension which are foundational for learning to read and communicate effectively.
- Be patient and supportive, allowing your child to express their thoughts in their own words.
- Use positive reinforcement to make the experience enjoyable and encourage a love for stories.
Assessment Questions
- Can you tell me who the story was about?
- What happened at the beginning/middle/end of the story?
- What was your favorite part of the story and why?
Extension Ideas
- Listen to an audio version of the story and compare it with the read-aloud version.
- Act out the story together using simple props or puppets.
- Create your own short story together and take turns telling it aloud.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is normal for young children to have short attention spans. Keep reading sessions short and engage your child by asking questions. Gradually increase listening time as their skills improve.
Select a story with clear pictures, simple language, and a short length (around 5-10 minutes read aloud). Stories with repetition or familiar themes work well.
Teacher’s Guide
Common Misconceptions:
- Some children may think listening means just hearing without understanding; emphasize active listening.
- Children might focus only on pictures and not the words; guide them to connect pictures with story details.
Scaffolding Ideas:
For Struggling Students:
- Use shorter stories or break the story into smaller parts.
- Use visual aids or gestures to support comprehension.
- Ask yes/no or choice questions to build confidence.
For Advanced Students:
- Encourage your child to predict what might happen next in the story.
- Ask your child to summarize the story in their own words without prompts.
- Have your child create alternate endings or new characters for the story.
Pacing Recommendations:
- Spend about 15-20 minutes reading and discussing the story.
- Allow 10-15 minutes for the child to retell and answer questions.
- Use the remaining time for drawing and creative extensions.
Standards
- 1.SL.5 — Follow agreed-upon rules for discussions (e.g., listening to others and taking turns speaking about the topics and texts under discussion).
Printable Worksheet
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