How can my students be active while they are reading?

Rather than simply trying to gain information, readers need to take control of it. A good way to do this is to ask questions like “What makes sense here?” and “How does this fit with what I already know?”

While you are reading, take time to think about what the text is saying. As well, compare the information with your own background knowledge. Now you have the tools to ask what might happen next. Using strategies to figure out difficult parts of the text, like sounding out words, or breaking down words and sentences and connecting them to words you already know, will help you follow the text and get the information you need.

Depending on your purpose for reading, graphic organizers or taking notes can help you record the information and see how it fits together.

Visualizing is another excellent way to connect with reading.

Strategies such as visualizing and pausing to reflect on your reading are good ways to stay focused and interested. By thinking about how everything fits together and comparing it to what you already know, you’ll get much more satisfaction out of what you’re reading.

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