Why Comprehension Level Matters: Strategies for Improving Reading Skills
Reading is considered an essential skill that forms the foundation of all learning. However, it’s the comprehension of what you read that truly matters. A good reader is one who can not only read fluently but also understand and analyze texts.
Poor reading comprehension can lead to low academic performance, decreased ability to interpret instructions, and a lack of critical thinking skills. So, what are some strategies that can be used to improve comprehension levels?
Active Reading
Active reading involves engaging with the text in a meaningful manner. Skimming through texts without understanding does not aid comprehension. Instead of mindlessly reading, active reading means asking questions, making predictions, and analyzing the text.
One way to achieve active reading is by using the SQ3R strategy. The SQ3R involves surveying the text before reading, creating questions, reading actively, reciting what you’ve read, and reviewing the material.
Build Vocabulary
Comprehension is dependent on the reader having knowledge of the words within the text. Therefore, it is essential to build one’s vocabulary to improve comprehension. Regular vocabulary-building exercises, such as learning a new word a day, can significantly improve a reader’s comprehension levels.
Visualize
Visualizing what you read helps to create mental images that aid comprehension. For example, when reading a story, picturing the setting, the characters, and the events as they unfold can create a deeper understanding of the story.
Practice Questioning
A reader should question the text to create a dialogue with the author. Asking questions like “What is the purpose of this text?,” “What is the author trying to say?,” and “Why is this information important?” helps to create a better understanding of the text.
Summary
Ultimately, comprehension is the most crucial aspect of reading. And while reading skills level vary among readers, there are strategies that can be used to improve comprehension. Active reading, building vocabulary, visualization, and practice questioning are some effective strategies that can help improve reading comprehension levels. By incorporating these strategies, readers can become better equipped to tackle any text and improve their comprehension levels.
