Storytelling and QAR Strategies

This book explains a research-based framework for reading comprehension called Question-Answer Relationships (QAR) and shows teachers, school librarians, and storytellers how to combine QAR with character education and storytelling in the classroom. QAR sorts questions about texts into four categories: questions that students can answer by finding the answer directly in the text, questions that require looking in several places in the text or in several texts, questions that require students to link text-based information with background information, and questions that activate prior knowledge of a topic. The book presents traditional tales, fables, and myths for grades 3-4, grades 5-6, and grades 7-8, related to six elements of character education (caring, citizenship, fairness, honesty, respect, and responsibility), with each story supported by QAR questions and activities for pre- and post-reading. Each story includes storytelling tips and there is also an overview of ten steps to becoming a storyteller. Hostmeyer is an educational consultant who conducts professional development for educators. Kinsella has told stories professionally as a teacher and children's librarian since 1981. Annotation c2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Phyllis Hostmeyer, a consultant for Educational Resources Group, Inc., works internationally conducting professional development for educators.

Marilyn Adele Kinsella of Fairview Heights, IL, has told stories professionally as a teacher and children's librarian since 1981.