By encouraging students to sketch visual notes during a read-aloud, teachers can turn doodles into deeper learning—and help boost retention and comprehension.
At Beaumonde Junior Middle School, in Etobicoke, Ontario, English language arts teacher Chey Cheney uses a creative and practical sketchnoting activity he calls “read-aloud quick sketch” that enhances reading comprehension and long-term retention by integrating visual notetaking with listening. Rooted in the belief that reading and read-alouds (even for secondary students!) are foundational to learning, this method offers a dynamic way for students to engage with texts—without requiring every reading experience to be followed by formal written responses.
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#teachingstrategies #sketchnoting #drawing #ela
© 2025 George Lucas Educational Foundation
At Beaumonde Junior Middle School, in Etobicoke, Ontario, English language arts teacher Chey Cheney uses a creative and practical sketchnoting activity he calls “read-aloud quick sketch” that enhances reading comprehension and long-term retention by integrating visual notetaking with listening. Rooted in the belief that reading and read-alouds (even for secondary students!) are foundational to learning, this method offers a dynamic way for students to engage with texts—without requiring every reading experience to be followed by formal written responses.
Find the full collection of 60-second strategies for every grade level at Edutopia: https://edut.to/3Rm2M2j
Join the Edutopia community today to get articles, videos, and more delivered via email every Wednesday—all tailored to you and your unique role: https://edut.to/3wEVHUh
*Follow us here:*
Official Website: https://edutopia.org
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/edutopia
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/edutopia
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edutopia
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/edutopia.org
#teachingstrategies #sketchnoting #drawing #ela
© 2025 George Lucas Educational Foundation
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