Materials: tape player, head phones (if available), variety of taped books, copies of books, and recording sheets

Purpose: To give children opportunities to listen to self-selected literature for enjoyment while also listening to modeled, expressive reading.

How it looks: Children listen to tapes, chiming in when they are able. The class can record tapes commercially, in a shared reading session or by parents, volunteers, and local celebrities. After listening to a story, children record reactions on recording sheet and turn into the center basket to share with the teacher.