Comprehension Practice
What is comprehension?
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"Comprehension is the understanding and interpretation of what is read. To be able to accurately understand written material, children need to be able to (1) decode what they read; (2) make connections between what they read and what they already know; and (3) think deeply about what they have read." (readingrockets.org)
Strategies
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- Preview the text before you begin. Notice text features (headings, textboxes, photographs, etc.). Make a prediction.
- Monitor & adjust predictions while you read!
- Chunk the text into smaller parts & talk about what you've read.
- Create "Stop & Jot" points within the text to write down key ideas.
- Make MEANINGFUL connections as you read. (Ask yourself, "How does this connection help me to better understand the text?")
- Visualize. Create mental images of what is happening as you read. You could create a mind map as you read.
- Notice: What are you wondering about?
- Ask, "What does it say? What does it mean? Why does it matter?"
- Reread anything that doesn't make sense (or if your mind starts to wander!).
- Find out the meaning of unknown words! Use context clues, ask a friend, or check a dictionary.
- Evaluate the characters actions. Do you agree with the character's decisions? Why or why not?
- Infer character feelings.
- What words would you use to describe your character? Find evidence from the story that demonstrates that trait.
- Did the main character change during the story? How do you know?
- What is the main problem in the story? How is it solved?
- How did the setting impact the story?
- How has your thinking changed about the topic you have read?
- Retell or summarize what you've read.
- Think about why the author wrote the text.
- Research anything you may still be wondering about!
Links to Comprehension Practice
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Wonderopolis
Read or listen to topics you may be curious about! Take a quiz once finished to check your comprehension.
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Kids A-Z
Listen to & read online books in the "Level Up Room." Then, take quizzes and earn stars to spend in the "Star Zone!" Homeroom teachers will provide username & password in grades K-3. Mrs. Williams will provide username & password for grades 4 & 5!