Readers Theater in ELT classrooms:How it can be used in Taiwan elementary school

Abstract

The goal of this study was to explore the implication of Readers Theater (hereby known as RT) in ELT classrooms. The main concerns of the researcher were the reasons for integrating RT into ELT classrooms, the best timing of using RT and the most suitable procedures of conducting RT in a regular ELT classroom. In this study, three competent teachers with RT experience were the participants. The research design of the study was a multiple-case study. The methods of data collection included classroom observations, teachers' interviews and gathering printed teaching materials, such as scripts and evaluation sheets. Then, these data were analyzed.The findings of this study were:1. In regular ELT classrooms, RT could be applied to review taught lessons, help the less-proficient students learn better English and help all students improve.2. RT can have superior teaching effects if teachers and students had some preparation.3. Based on the interviews and the RT instructions of the three competent teachers with RT experience, the most suitable procedures of integrating RT into normal ELT classrooms in Taiwan could be: (1) teachers' and students' pre-teaching preparation; (2) scripts creation or adaption; (3) supporting activities; (4) teacher modeling and explanation; (5) grouping and role assignments; (6) practice and checking; (7) rehearsal and preparation for performance; (8) performance and evaluation; and (9) post-RT activities. Finally, suggestions about the educational implications of RT and for researchers who are interested in similar topics are also provided at the end of the paper.