Comprehension

What is "Comprehension?"

"Comprehension" refers to readers' ability to understand both the text's literal meaning and why the text was composed in a particular way. When readers are able to "comprehend" something that they've read, they are able to follow along with the ideas and reflect on why those ideas are explained in the way that the author(s) chose. When readers are able to comprehend a text, they are able not only to synthesize what they've read, but to question, critique, and reflect on what they've read. Readers with "comprehension" have an awareness of the conditions, contexts, and histories that shape the texts they've encountered.

Resources for Understanding "Comprehension" in the 21st Century