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Reading activities

Cliffhanger read-aloud

A daily class novel read aloud by the teacher, always stopping at a moment that leaves pupils desperate to know what happens next.

Year groups
KS1 to Upper KS2
Time
15 min
Group
Whole class
Type
Read-aloud and storytelling

Why it works

Hearing a book read well is one of the strongest ways to build enjoyment. Regular read-aloud time gives every child access to stories they couldn't yet read alone, and the cliffhanger creates real anticipation.

What you need

  • A class novel chosen for its story, not for a lesson objective
  • A regular slot in the timetable, ideally the same time every day

How to run it

  1. Choose a book you enjoy, and read ahead so you know where the good stopping points are.
  2. Gather pupils somewhere comfortable and read for 10 to 15 minutes with expression.
  3. Stop at a tense or surprising moment.
  4. Ask one quick question: 'What do you think will happen?' Don't turn it into a comprehension task.
  5. Protect the slot: read-aloud happens every day, even when the week is busy.

Make it work for your class

  • For younger classes, use a picture book or a short chapter book and stop between chapters.
  • Let the class vote between two or three books for the next read-aloud.
  • Put a copy in the book corner for pupils who can't wait.

Books that work well for this

  • The BFG

    by Roald Dahl

    Sophie is snatched from her bed by a giant, but luckily he's the Big Friendly Giant, who catches dreams and won't eat children.

  • The Witches

    by Roald Dahl

    Real witches look just like ordinary women and hate children, and a boy and his grandmother find themselves in a hotel full of them.

  • The Tale of Despereaux

    by Kate DiCamillo

    Despereaux is a very small mouse with very large ears who falls in love with a princess and becomes an unlikely hero.

  • Kensuke's Kingdom

    by Michael Morpurgo

    Michael is washed overboard from his family's yacht and wakes up on an island where he soon realises he isn't alone.

  • Boy in the Tower

    by Polly Ho-Yen

    Ade lives high up in a tower block, and when strange plants start bringing the buildings down around him, he and his mum are trapped.

Find more with the Book finder or our Recommended reads.