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Reader's Theater in 5 Easy Steps

Five easy steps to performing a reader's theater activity.

Choose a script.  Choose a prepared script, or have kids choose a book from which to develop a reader's theater script.  Adapt the script.  If adapting, kids identify speaking parts (including narrators) and break down the story into dialogue.  Assign parts.  Kids might try out different parts to get a feel for them, then choose their roles themselves.  Highlight parts and rehearse.  Kids highlight their dialogue, then practice their lines at home and in groups during school.  Perform.  The cast reads the play aloud for an audience, often made up of parents or younger students.