Comprehension Activities

While reading, students should have a pencil nearby to make notes of predictions, thoughts, questions, or any other comments they have about the text. Students can also circle unknown words, or textual evidence that may be used to answer questions. Students can mark in the margins or write on sticky notes to preserve the book. If students are actively thinking about what they are reading, they will be better able to understand the text.

Teachers should facilitate the use of graphic organizers while reading. Students can use thinking maps to organize thoughts about the text. In fact, "Kids who struggle with reading can improve their reading comprehension by using graphic organizers. These simple, visual tools allow kids to break down stories and nonfiction texts. They also help kids keep track of thoughts as they read" (Team, 2019).

Teaching the SQ3R method is a systematic way to teach reading comprehension. In fact, "the SQ3R method is useful when teaching reading comprehension. The method is named for its steps, which require students to survey, question, read, recite, and review the material" (Schultz, 2017). Using this method, students will survey or preview their reading material and form questions. They will then read the material to answer the questions. The students can practice recalling the answers and reviewing the material (Schultz, 2017). The SQ3R method also promotes critical literacy.