You Can Read!
Wordless Picture Books in Kindergarten
Suzanne PerreaultThe Town School
http://wordlesspbs.wikispaces.com/
Goals for You!
• Learn specific strategies and prompts to use in your classroom
• See kindergarten students in action
• Browse our wordless picture book collection
• Experience a mini-lesson
• Acquire materials to use in your classroom
What is a Wordless Picture Book?
“the pictures tell it all” (Lukens, 1991)
“(they) rely entirely on illustrations to tell a story” (Jalongo et
al, 2002)
Choosing Wordless Picture Books
“Just because a book is textless does not make it suitable for young
children.” (Jalongo et al, 2002)
Watch for:•complexity•detail• inference •content
What previous experiences have you
had with wordless picture books?
Why Wordless Picture Books?
• Build readers’ confidence and enthusiasm
• Develop oral language and vocabulary
• Create an understanding of sequence and story plots
Experiencing a Wordless Picture Book
Turn and Talk!
How did the reader interact with the book?
How did the reader
tell this story?
What can a student learn about reading from this read
aloud?
There Is So Much To Teach!
• create the story
• take a picture walk
• name the characters
• act out the story
• become the characters
• add dialogue
• collaborate with a partner
Mini-Lessons in Action!
Mini-Lessons in Action!
Mini-Lessons in Action!
Turn and Talk!
What stood out
for you in these
videos? What questions do you have so
far?
?
Why Wordless Picture Books?
They transition students into a
more formalized Kindergarten
reading program.
They build confidence and
alleviate student anxiety.
Why Wordless Picture Books?
They help broaden the definition of
“reading.”
Why Wordless Picture Books?
They are accessible for students at all
levels.
Why Wordless Picture Books?
They help build reading
comprehension skills.
Why Wordless Picture Books?
They help build student
vocabulary and oral language.
Why Wordless Picture Books?
They help make reading fun.
Kids Love Wordless Picture Books!
Kids In Action!
How does one assess
a wordless picture book
reader?
Time To Explore!Look for…
• Clear story structure (beginning/middle/end)
• Themes that are relatable to your age group
• Detailed and engaging illustrations• Story elements (characters, setting…)
What questions
do you still have?
Contact Information
http://wordlesspbs.wikispaces.com/