The 5 Types of Reading Comprehension You Need to Know

Reading comprehension is an essential skill that we use in our daily lives. It involves understanding the meaning of a text, interpreting it, and making connections to our experiences and prior knowledge. Reading comprehension is critical to academic success, as it plays a significant role in learning, retention, and critical thinking. There are different types of reading comprehension that we need to know to improve our reading skills. In this article, we will examine the 5 types of reading comprehension that are essential for every reader.

Literal Comprehension

Literal comprehension is the type of reading comprehension that focuses on understanding the surface-level meaning of a text. It involves identifying the facts, details, and information explicitly stated in the text. Literal comprehension is the foundation of all other comprehension types and is necessary for understanding a text accurately. Literal comprehension is useful for reading textbooks, articles, or instructions.

For example, if you are reading a recipe, literal comprehension will help you understand the ingredients needed, the quantity required, and the steps involved in preparing the dish.

Interpretive Comprehension

Interpretive comprehension goes beyond the surface-level meaning of a text. It involves understanding the underlying message, the tone of the writer, and making inferences based on the information presented in the text. Interpretive comprehension helps us to delve deeper into the meaning of a text and understand the author’s intention.

For example, if you are reading a news article, interpretive comprehension will help you identify the biases, assumptions, and implications of the information presented.

Evaluative Comprehension

Evaluative comprehension is the type of reading comprehension that focuses on assessing the value, credibility, and relevance of the information presented in the text. Evaluative comprehension helps us to develop critical thinking skills and make informed judgments about the text’s content.

For example, if you are reading a persuasive essay, evaluative comprehension will help you evaluate the arguments presented, identify the strengths and weaknesses of the writer’s position, and form your own opinion.

Applied Comprehension

Applied comprehension is the type of reading comprehension that involves using the information presented in the text to solve real-life problems or make decisions. Applied comprehension helps readers apply their knowledge to new situations and develop problem-solving skills.

For example, if you are reading a manual for a new gadget, applied comprehension will help you use the steps provided in the manual to set up and use the device.

Aesthetic Comprehension

Aesthetic comprehension is the type of reading comprehension that focuses on appreciating the literary elements of a text, such as style, tone, imagery, symbolism, and characterization. Aesthetic comprehension helps us develop a deeper appreciation of literature and its impact on our lives.

For example, if you are reading a poem, aesthetic comprehension will help you understand the poem’s various literary elements, interpret its meaning, and appreciate the poem’s beauty.

Conclusion

Reading comprehension involves more than just understanding a text’s surface-level meaning. It involves interpreting, evaluating, applying, and appreciating the information presented in the text. Familiarizing yourself with these 5 types of reading comprehension will help you develop solid reading skills and become a more effective reader.