Narration: The Art of Retelling

By Avery Piperato and Virginia Mares

Charlotte Mason English educator from 19th century

Viewed children as thinkers

Stressed the importance of quality literature, or “living books”

Used narration to build student understanding

Narration Retelling what has just been read, heard,

or seen

Natural habit of children

Focuses student attention on “big” ideas

Encourages reflection

Students assimilate knowledge

Benefits of Narration Aids retention

Builds reading comprehension

Improves listening/speaking skills

Alternative form of assessment

Narration: The Process Introduce the book, new vocabulary,

and background information

Encourage active listening

Read a selection from a book once

Have students narrate, or retell, what was read

Tips for Narration Start with short passages

Choose action over description

Incorporate narration across the curriculum/grade levels

Encourage student opinions, reactions, connections

Different Forms of Narration

Written narrations

Detailed drawings

Dramatic re-enactments

Class discussions

Works Cited Andreola, K. (1998). A charlotte mason

companion: Personal reflection on the gentle art of learning. Charlotte Mason Research and Supply Company.

Cooper, E. (Ed.). (2004). When children love to learn: A practical application of charlotte mason’s philosophy for today. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.