Literacy: Comprehension Strategies

Just because a child can read text and identify the words correctly does not necessarily mean they are able to comprehend what it is they are reading.  Comprehension is essential for children to be able to become a skilled, fluent reader and is an important aspect of literacy. 

What exactly is comprehension?

" The reader or listener contributes personal knowledge and dispositions to provide background knowledge for the comprehension process.  What the speaker or writer indicates in the text is processed by the listener or reader so that it adds to background knowledge, questions it, confirms it, revises it, or transforms it in some other way..." (Snow, Griffin, & Burns, 2007, p. 22).

How can I help my child with their reading comprehension?

Reading aloud to your child can be very helpful in developing their reading comprehension.  When a child reads independently, it becomes their responsibility to clarify what the author is trying to say.  When you read aloud to your child, you become a mediator of sorts to aid the child in comprehension of the text. (Griffin).  When reading to your child to encourage comprehension, it is important to think aloud how you are comprehending what you are reading (The boy said he was sad. Do you think it may be because he lost his toy a few pages back?).  Taking breaks while reading to review and discuss helps to be sure your child is on the right track regarding comprehension and gives you the opportunity to guide them and provide clarity where needed. 

References

Griffin, P. (2011). Foundations of Reading Comprehension [Power Point Slides].  Retrieved from online lecture notes.

Snow, M.S., Griffin, P., & Snow, C.E. (1999). Starting out right: A guide to promoting children's reading success. Washington, DC: National Academy Press.