Beloved by teachers and school librarians, Novel Effect turns routine read-alouds into immersive reading experiences. They find it is a vital tool that engages young learners and fosters a love of reading. Educators are also exploring innovative ways for students to read-aloud with Novel Effect to increase reading engagement, fluency, and comprehension. As they integrate these novel ideas into their daily routines and practices, they inspire all of us to think beyond the read-aloud paradigm.
All educators have moments throughout the day that they wish were calmer and more focused. According to Wolfe and Noguchi (2009), using music with young children improves their concentration despite distractions. Using music, voice actors, and sound effects, Novel Effect is perfectly suited for that purpose.
Read-Aloud Rockstar is another student-led idea that has proven successful in the classroom. Read-Aloud Rockstars love being in the spotlight as they read to their peers with Novel Effect soundscapes. Taking on responsibilities and playing positive roles is something students love. Whether it’s snack time, dismissal, transitions, or other parts of the day, they’ll choose a book to read aloud. In addition to creating calm moments throughout the day, students connect through literature!
During the day, indoor recess can be another overwhelming and loud moment. Teachers incorporate student-led Novel Effect read-alouds. There is a basket filled with Novel Effect compatible books, a tablet installed with the app, and a Bluetooth speaker connected to the tablet. It makes it easier for students to gather around and engage in active listening while listening to a rich story.
Novel Effect has been a game-changer for educators and librarians during dismissal! As a first step, they invited students to read aloud a book the teacher had previously shared. The app allows them to read during the dismissal routine, which helps to keep this usually chaotic time calm. As a result of repeated reading, the entire class gains comprehension and understanding, while the students reading aloud improve their fluency!
Intrinsic motivation is a common barrier to reading achievement. Eady and Wilson (2004) argue that music enhances motivation and achievement. Because of the way Novel Effect incorporates music into soundscapes, Novel Effect educators state that their students want to read more.
Stations or centers can effectively transfer this enthusiasm to independent reading. Their reading experience becomes more interactive and responsive; making it easier for students to focus and attend. To set up a station, you’ll need a basket of two to five books compatible with Novel Effect. You’ll also need a tablet with the app installed, and headphones or a splitter if desired. Once the station is ready, students can read aloud on their own or with a partner.
Do you have a book buddy class? Novel Effect can turn older students into read-aloud rock stars! Older readers can captivate their younger partners with read-aloud sessions, while younger students eagerly follow along. Novel Effect’s perfectly cued music, sound effects, and character voices provide immediate feedback. This boosts the young buddy’s confidence when reading to their more experienced partner.
According to Wigfield et al. (2008), reading engagement contributes significantly to learning. As motivation to read increases, students use reading strategies more often, leading to improved reading performance.
Start a small team of specialists or tech-enthusiasts
PER YEAR
Build a love of reading across the district
PER SCHOOL, PER YEAR
Teachers strive to meet a variety of needs of young readers who are developing their fluency and comprehension muscles. With Novel Effect, you can support your students’ efforts to improve fluency, enhance interpersonal skills, or preserve academic autonomy.
A great deal has been written about differentiated instruction, and Carol Ann Tomlinson speaks about the need for educators to tailor reading experiences according to students’ interests and readiness (2005). As students read aloud with a Novel Effect soundscape, music, sound effects, and character voices are prompted at just the right time, providing immediate feedback.
By reading together, students improve their literacy and interpersonal skills. As they listen to their partner read aloud, they engage in active listening as they negotiate turn-taking, practice patience and know when to continue the story. Reading experiences shared between peers support literacy and skills development such as phonemic awareness, word recognition, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
Empower staff & students with magical read-alouds
PER SCHOOL, PER YEAR
The ability to learn independently can be extremely valuable to children, and can be used to ensure that all readers work their reading muscles. Some Novel Effect educators and school librarians use ‘Read with Novel Effect’ as an early finisher activity. While others include this option on literacy choice boards. With a little modeling, students will know how to independently read aloud with the app, and practice their reading fluency!
Do you want students to read a specific soundscape, or only books from a certain collection? Make a QR Code that directs readers to preferential soundscapes by following these steps:
Librarians and educators love Novel Effect for its ability to increase reading enthusiasm and create a beloved reading ritual. Additionally, they appreciate the numerous opportunities that can be extended with independent use by students.
Some teachers use reading aloud with Novel Effect as a reward. For students who are passionate about leading and connecting with others, it has been a great motivator. The idea is to put students in the driver’s seat and (respectfully) command their peers’ attention.
Educators and librarians also appreciate Novel Effect’s ability to bridge the gap between school and home. During the school day, they engage students in read-alouds, and then use one of the strategies below to extend their enthusiasm.
Download the Novel Effect app to bring stories to life with music and sound that respond to your voice.
This red, white, and woohoo sale ends 7/3/25, and applies to your first year's subscription. Does not apply to gift subscriptions.
