What is a "think-aloud" strategy in reading instruction?

A "think-aloud" strategy in reading instruction involves teachers verbalizing their thought processes as they read. This approach is particularly effective for modeling comprehension strategies to students, helping them to understand how to approach and interact with texts. By expressing their thoughts about predictions, questions, clarifications, and connections during the reading process, teachers demonstrate how to engage with the material actively. This strategy not only shows students how to monitor their understanding but also encourages them to implement similar strategies when they read independently. It creates a transparent environment where students can see the cognitive processes involved in making meaning from texts, leading to greater comprehension skills.