Making Connections

One very important reading strategy that assists with comprehension is Making Connections.  Making connections is dependent upon prior knowledge.  Prior knowledge consists of  what we have experienced, what we have read, or what we have been exposed to.  Proficient readers build upon this knowledge as they read new material.  When readers become aware of what they already know, they are better able to build bridges from prior knowledge and experiences to new learning.  When connections are made, retention and understanding is improved.

 There are three types of connections that students can make.  One is the text-to-self connection.  In this connection, students draw upon personal knowledge or experiences and connect those to what they are reading.  A second connection is text-to-text connections.  Students connect prior knowledge from what they have read and connect it to what they are currently reading.  A third type of connection is the text-to-world connection.  This may include students connecting prior knowledge gleaned from world experiences or current events, for example, to aid in comprehension of current reading.

 

Using the iPad

There are a number of APPS available on the iPad that will assist students with learning to read and comprehend.  One such APP is Reading Comprehension.  It has twenty stories about daily life.  These are all nonfiction.  Another is Reading Comprehension.  The target audience is K-8.  There are passages with multiple-choice at the end.   There are visuals that accompany the text.  Reading Trainer is an APP that improves reading speed for improved comprehension.  Enchanted Dictionary improves general and academic vocabulary across content areas for improved fluency and comprehension.