The reading-writing connection is so strong that it makes sense teaching reading comprehension alongside writing strategies. When we write, we are sharing information. Quite often, we get that information from reading. Reading is the best way to build vocabulary, and it allows writers to observe the skills of other writers. For many children, however, understanding what they read is a difficult task, resulting in frustration and distress.
Understanding what we read requires several skills that can be grouped under two headings: vocabulary comprehension, and text comprehension. While knowing what individual words mean is essential, it’s just as important to recognize that when words are combined they form relationships and greater meaning is created.
Over the next few weeks we will discuss reading comprehension in more detail, how it connects with writing, strategies for developing reading comprehension, and how to make reading comprehension more fun.
So, join in the discussion, ask questions, make comments.
