We have compiled a list of strategies you can use to help your children improve their reading skills. These are ideas and techniques we teach the children during the school year. Take a moment to look them over and give them a try!
What's the Word?
What to Do When a Reader Doesn't Know a Word:
Wait and see if the reader can work it out.
Use Context Clues: Skip the word and think about what would make sense.
Use Sound Clues: Sound it out.
Picture Clues: What do you see?
Word Part Clues: Which part of the word do you know?
What to Do When a Reader Makes a Mistake:
If the mistake makes sense, don't do a thing! If the mistake does not make sense, wait until the end of the sentence and see if the reader fixes it.At the end of the sentence ask the reader to try it again.Repeat what the reader said and ask if it makes sense.If the reader does not self correct then tell the correct response.
Remember, getting meaning from the text is the goal!
Reading Comprehension
Ask the reader these questions:
Before Reading:
*Look at the cover of the book together.
What do you think this book is about?
What do you predict might happen?
What do you already know about this topic or story?
During Reading:
*Use expression, encourage your child to read along, take turns.
Does what you are reading make sense?
Do you understand the meanings of the words?
Can you picture what is happening in your mind?
After Reading:
*Discuss the story.
Were the predictions you made correct?
Did you learn something that you did not know already?
Can you retell the story or share the information in a summary?
What's the Word?
What to Do When a Reader Doesn't Know a Word:
Wait and see if the reader can work it out.
Use Context Clues: Skip the word and think about what would make sense.
Use Sound Clues: Sound it out.
Picture Clues: What do you see?
Word Part Clues: Which part of the word do you know?
What to Do When a Reader Makes a Mistake:
If the mistake makes sense, don't do a thing! If the mistake does not make sense, wait until the end of the sentence and see if the reader fixes it.At the end of the sentence ask the reader to try it again.Repeat what the reader said and ask if it makes sense.If the reader does not self correct then tell the correct response.
Remember, getting meaning from the text is the goal!
Reading Comprehension
Ask the reader these questions:
Before Reading:
*Look at the cover of the book together.
What do you think this book is about?
What do you predict might happen?
What do you already know about this topic or story?
During Reading:
*Use expression, encourage your child to read along, take turns.
Does what you are reading make sense?
Do you understand the meanings of the words?
Can you picture what is happening in your mind?
After Reading:
*Discuss the story.
Were the predictions you made correct?
Did you learn something that you did not know already?
Can you retell the story or share the information in a summary?