For children with limited exposure to storybooks, which instructional approach accelerates understanding of story structure?

Teaching story elements explicitly during read-alouds is effective for children with limited exposure to storybooks because it provides direct guidance and scaffolding as they encounter narrative structures. This method allows educators to clearly identify and explain components of stories, such as characters, setting, plot, conflict, and resolution, in real-time as the story is being read. By integrating explicit instruction into the reading experience, children are able to connect these concepts to the text they're engaging with, enhancing their comprehension and application of story structure.

Additionally, the explicit teaching approach helps children recognize patterns in storytelling and understand how different elements interact within a narrative. This familiarity with story structure can build their confidence in both listening and later in their own storytelling, as they have a clearer understanding of what makes a story cohesive and engaging. In contrast, approaches like encouraging free play with story props or having students draw interpretations might not provide the same level of focused instruction needed to grasp fundamental narrative elements. Worksheets outlining narrative elements could also lack the dynamic interaction and contextual learning that occurs during read-alouds.