If you’re already a fan of Readers Theater in your classroom, you know just how powerful it is for building fluency, confidence, and expression. Now imagine combining that with the ease and flexibility of digital learning. That’s exactly what the Google Slides version of the digital Readers Theater scripts offer—no printing, no prep, just open and go.
This blog will walk you through how to use the Google Slides scripts with your students—whether you’re teaching whole-group, running centers, or working in a blended or remote setting.
Why Use Digital Readers Theater Scripts?
Every Literacy Stations script comes with a ready-to-use Google Slides version—and it’s a total game changer.
- Perfect for tech-friendly classrooms: Whether your students are on Chromebooks, iPads, or desktops, they can easily access the script digitally.
- No printing required: Great for last-minute planning or schools where resources are tight.
- Flexible for any teaching style: Use it for whole-group lessons, small-group fluency practice, or independent reading centers.
These digital Readers Theater scripts are perfect for teachers who want to build fluency with engaging, low-prep activities.
Accessing Your Digital Readers Theater Scripts
When you purchase a Readers Theater script from LiteracyStations.com, you’ll receive a two links to the digital Readers Theater scripts on Google Slides. You will see both Set A (easy) and Set B (challenging).
- Click the link to open the slides in your browser.
- Make a copy: Go to File > Make a copy so you can edit and save your own version.
- Stay organized: Rename your file something helpful like “Cinderella – Group A – Week 1” so it’s easy to find next time.
Projecting The Script For Whole Class Reading
Projecting your digital Readers Theater scripts during whole-group lessons helps model fluency and expressive reading for all students.
- Use “Present” mode to remove distractions and let the text shine.
- Grab a pointer or laser to track the lines as students read.
- Try choral reading, echo reading, or assign specific parts to volunteers.
- You can even let a student click through the slides—it’s a great way to keep them involved, especially if they’re a little nervous to read aloud.
Bonus tip: Zoom in on a line or use the “laser pointer” tool in Google Slides to focus attention where it matters most.
Assigning Your Digital Readers Theater Scripts
Want students to work on fluency at their own pace? Try assigning the digital Readers Theater scripts to them directly:
- Share it through Google Classroom (or your platform of choice).
- Assign it as an independent or partner activity.
- Use a Chromebook or tablet at your fluency station and set the slides as a center.
Readers Theater For Centers Or Small Groups
These digital Readers Theater scripts work great in small groups:
- Students pick a role, and the linked slides take them right to their part.
- Each student clicks “next” after every line—simple, seamless, and engaging.
- When it’s their turn to speak, their character appears on stage—so they know exactly when to jump in.
This setup keeps students focused and minimizes the classic “Wait, whose turn is it?” confusion.
Customize The Slides For Your Lesson
Want to add a little extra?
- Insert a few slides at the end with vocabulary words, discussion prompts, or fluency tips.
- Use the last slide for comprehension questions or a reflection journal.
- Add notes to remind yourself what to review before reading next time.
Just make sure to add your new slides at the end so you don’t break the internal links.
Great For Remote Learning
The digital Readers Theater scripts aren’t just for in-person use—it’s a perfect option for virtual teaching, too.
- Assign scripts for students to read at home on their own schedule.
- Host a virtual performance via Zoom or Google Meet.
- Ask students to record themselves reading their part—it’s great for fluency checks or portfolios.
- Encourage families to participate, by assigning them a role too!
Useful As An Assessment Tool
There are some easy ways to use these slides for informal assessment:
- Have students record themselves reading and submit the video.
- Use a fluency rubric to give feedback on expression, pacing, and accuracy.
- Add a slide at the end of the script with a few comprehension questions or a quick self-assessment.
It’s low-pressure but gives you valuable insight into each student’s growth.
Final Thoughts...
Your digital Readers Theater scripts are more than just a digital backup—it’s a flexible, engaging way to bring your fluency lessons to life.
Whether you’re using it whole-class, in centers, or for take-home practice, it’s built to fit seamlessly into your teaching routine.
And if you’re looking for even more practical tips, be sure to check out our blog on Getting the Most Out of Your Readers Theater Scripts—perfect if you’re using the printed version and want to set up your materials for long-term use.
Need More Readers Theater Tips?
Looking for more ways to make the most of your readers theater scripts?
Teaching Firsties has a growing library of instructional blog posts packed with strategies, classroom management ideas, and fluency tips for every stage of your Readers Theater journey.
Visit the Readers Theater Blog Series on Teaching Firsties for:
- Script selection strategies
- Role assignment tips
- Fluency-building routines
- Performance planning ideas
…and more! Keep your students engaged—and your prep time low—with ready-to-use guidance tailored just for K-2 teachers.
