Your video or audio book talk should include the following components.
Opening
- Hook your audience!
- Read a quote from the book, ask prospective readers a question, introduce the main character, vividly set the scene, or combine a few of these techniques.
- Make sure to give the title and author of the book.
Summary
- In a paragraph or two, summarize the plot of the book. (No spoilers, please!)
- Be sure that your summary introduces the main character, identifies the problem, and leads us toward the solution–without giving away the ending!
Impressions
- Share your opinion!
- How did you feel about the book? What did you think of the author? Would you recommend it to others? What rating would you give it?
Closing
- Entice your audience!
- Ask a rhetorical question, read a quote from the book, use a cliffhanger, or combine these techniques.
Remember, your book talk should flow nicely, like a commercial. It should not be a giant list answering these questions!
Your narrative should include suggestions for instruction with a list of SOL connections. Consider these questions:
- What grade(s) is this book appropriate for?
- How does this book connect to science? What concepts does it highlight?
- How might you use this book in the classroom?