Improving EAL (English as an Additional Language) reading and speaking skills using Raz-Kids’ recording feature involves specific strategies to build confidence, fluency, and pronunciation. A simple way to support your child at home, is by helping them record themselves while reading on Raz Kids!
Key Strategies for EAL Skills
- Audio Shadowing: Before recording, students should use the “Listen” feature to hear a native English speaker. This allows them to listen for correct pronunciation, intonation, and rhythm.
- Repeated Reading: Students can record themselves reading the same book multiple times to track improvement. Research shows repeated reading of the same passage helps EAL learners decrease miscues and improve word recognition.
- Self-Correction: After recording, students can listen to their own voice by pressing the play button. If they are unhappy with the result, they can delete the recording and try again, which encourages self-assessment.
- Oral Retelling: After finishing a book, students can record a “retelling” of the story instead of just reading the text. This builds speaking skills by requiring them to use their own words to summarize the content.
- Visual-Audio Mapping: While listening to the program read out loud, words are highlighted. Students should follow these highlights before recording their own version to strengthen the link between spoken and written English.
How to Use the Recording Feature
- Select the Book: Choose a book and click the “Read” (not “Listen”) option.
- Activate Microphone: Click the microphone icon at the top of the screen.
- Record: Press the red button to begin reading aloud. The recording must be at least 30 seconds long to save to the teacher’s “In Basket”.
- Review: Press the play button to listen back.
- Submit: Click “Done” at the end of the book to automatically send the recording to the teacher for feedback.
Benefits for EAL Learners
- Fluency Practice: It provides a low-pressure environment for students to practice speaking without the fear of making mistakes in front of a live audience.
- Motivation: Students earn virtual rewards and stars for completing recordings, which can boost their engagement and willingness to read.