In order to be successful in reading, comprehension, and comprehension instruction, it is essential to understand what research tells us about these topics.
Reading: Research has consistently shown that reading is a necessary skill for success in school and in life (Salthouse, 2000). Reading is important for understanding written content, comprehending what is being read, and forming accurate opinions.
Comprehension: Research has also consistently shown that comprehension is important for success in school and in life. Comprehension involves understanding the content of a text, determining the meaning of the text, and applying the information to one’s own life.
Comprehension instruction: Comprehension instruction should be designed to help students improve their comprehension skills. Comprehension instruction can be divided into two types: explicit and implicit. Explicit comprehension instruction involves providing students with explicit information about the text. Implicit comprehension instruction, on the other hand, involves providing students with information that is implied in the text.
There are many different ways to improve students’ comprehension skills. Some ways to improve comprehension include providing students with explicit information about the text, scaffolding comprehension, using visual aids to help students understand the text, providing students with context clues, and using multiple texts in the classroom.
All students need to be able to read and comprehend text in order to be successful in school and in life. Effective comprehension instruction can help students improve their skills.
