What is Comprehension?

Comprehension is the act of constructing meaning during reading. This is an interaction between the prior knowledge of the reader and the actual text content, to reveal a meaning of a text. Readers can read to learn, find information or be entertained.

Comprehension requires the reader to integrate their own knowledge of the world, vocabulary and print.  Once a reader comprehends a text, their understanding of that text can be put to use or shared with others.

What did the National Reading Panel find?

Comprehension instruction motivates and teaches students to use comprehension strategies that benefit thier overall comprehension. This can cause standardized test score gains for individual students.  Also, comprehension instruction increases reading motivation and thus students read more.

What are the implications for reading instruction?

• There is a need for comprehension strategy instruction.
• There should be multiple strategies for comprehension taught. 
• Comprehension should be taught in multiple contexts and in the content areas.
• Teachers should be trained in teaching comprehension strategies. 

Want to know more?

Check out the actual report at www.nationalreadingpanel.org.

Related Readings * Suggested Resources * Activities

[Understanding SBRR] [The Consortium] [Phonemic Awareness] [Phonics] [Fluency] [Vocabulary] [Comprehension] [Related Readings] [Suggested Resources] [Activities]