Learning to Read – Reading to Comprehend
To read is not easy as one, two, and three. There are many processes or steps that one must take before he/she can even start reading printed text. To read can be as complex as planning a wedding. There is a lot to do prior to the significant event (wedding day) or reading task. Today was the first time that I stopped to think about what one needs to be able to read a basic text. As a perpetual learner, I did not realize that many external and internal factors could influence one’s ability to read. For example, a child academic success on a reading assessment can be affected by his/her prior knowledge, cultural background or daily life realities. Today’s class made me better understand why so many of my students do not fare well on reading comprehension assessments. I need to find an effective way to assess my students reading abilities with formal and informal assessments. Today’s class made me see why I still struggle to understand certain English texts or guidelines. Just like many of my students I have not acquired all the background information that one needs to be an effective reader. Maybe the many Apps on the Ipad will help my students, and I improve our reading comprehension. Only two days into this course and I can tell that technology will help me help my students become effective learners.
QR CODES
Sorry for sounding repetitive, but I seriously have to get an Ipad. That little tablet is simply a god sent resources to learners living with a learning disability or not. Quick Response codes and EBooks are making learning accessible to all. Both Apps are interactive and allow students to decode information at their own pace. Many of my IPP students would have benefited from having easy access to a resource like QR codes. For example, they would have quickly found information on the web if they had a QR code. No need to look at pages of non-important web sites. It does mean more work for the teacher (i.e. find resources that students will have to use), but it will give students a sense of independence.
Why Do People Read?
I think people read to gain knowledge, and in some cases escape from reality. In my case, I only read because it is part of my life as a Graduate student. I lost the passion for reading for pleasure the moment I started University (Undergrad). My life has been about reading students’ work or course related materials.
Quotes about Reading
“Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.” - Sir Richard Steele
“Reading furnishes the mind only with materials of knowledge; it is thinking that makes what we read ours.” - John Locke (1632 - 1704)
“Reading is a basic tool in the living of a good life.” - Mortimer J. Adler
Making Reading Fun (Song)
Teaching Language and Literacy, K-6 by Janette M. Hughes
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