Flashlight Reading
The classroom goes dark and each child gets a flashlight. The exciting atmosphere makes reading an experience, and the focused beam of light naturally draws attention to the text.
What Is It?
Flashlight reading is a reading activity in which students read in a darkened classroom with only a flashlight as their light source. The special atmosphere makes reading exciting and focuses attention directly on the text.
Materials Needed
- Flashlights (one per student or per pair)
- A way to darken the room (close curtains, turn off lights)
- Reading books
- Optional: blankets to build a reading tent
How It Works
- Darken the classroom or create a dark reading corner.
- Give each student (or pair) a flashlight.
- Students find a spot.
- They read using only the flashlight as a light source.
- Allow 15 to 20 minutes of quiet reading.
Learning Goals
- Boost reading motivation through an exciting atmosphere
- Increase focus on the text through the directed light
- Grow reading enjoyment
- Build a positive association with reading
Tips
- Reserve this for special moments: before a holiday, with scary stories, or as a reward.
- Ensure the darkened space is safe to move around in.
- Test flashlight batteries beforehand.
- Pair with adventure or mystery books for maximum effect.
- Be aware of children who are afraid of the dark. Offer a slightly lighter spot if needed.
Variations
- Tent reading: Build reading tents with blankets and chairs
- Group flashlight: One flashlight per group; students take turns reading
- Star reading: Project stars on the ceiling
- Halloween reading: With scary stories around Halloween
- Campfire reading: A fake campfire made of red and orange fabric as a focal point
Best Suited For
Grades 1-5.