Research abstract

Can Movies Replace Books in Reading Class?

How would you feel about your child watching movies and reading only excerpts instead of whole books in Reading class? Is it possible that this is as effective a learning tool as a book? Some parents are raising concern over this new trend. By Education Week

Laura Lurns Last updated March 13, 2017 · 1 min read

I think that movies can help enhance reading in classrooms. They can help the children to understand the books and novels more easily. To get the basic concepts of what they are trying to convey in the sentence or paragraph. Sometimes they understand better with the help of a visual aid.

In central New Jersey, a former school board member and parent are raising questions about the Hamilton Township School District’s policy of allowing teachers to use movies for instructional purposes and teaching students reading skills through short excerpts instead of whole books or stories.

I do see why there would be issues with using movies in reading class; I don’t think that they can replace reading books and novels in class. I do think that they could be a good companion tool. I think that this should be given a chance to see how the kids relate to it, and how it works for them. As an Adult, doesn’t mean we will always know the right way, we should keep our eyes open to other opportunities.

Key takeaways

There is controversy over using movies about books rather than books.
Movies based on literature is not an effective way to teach literacy.
Common Core requires “close reading, ” and is controversial.

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Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert Writes about the learning brain for parents who want plain answers. Every article is grounded in current neuroscience and classroom practice.

In central New Jersey, a former school board member and parent are raising questions about the Hamilton Township School District’s policy of allowing teachers to use movies for instructional purposes and teaching students reading skills through short excerpts instead of whole books or stories.

Key takeaways

Is your child struggling in school?

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