11.
Teaching Reading
The Importance of Teaching Reading Skills
Reading is an essential skill that allows individuals to extract information from written texts and books. It is
a complex process involving the understanding of words, grammar structures, and the overall meaning of the
text. As a thinking process, reading requires readers to actively engage with the material, process information,
and employ various strategies to comprehend and organize their thoughts.
Understanding Reading
At its core, reading is more than just decoding symbols on a page; it is an intricate process of understanding.
Effective reading involves grasping vocabulary and grammar while also interpreting themes and ideas.
Readers utilize cognitive strategies to make sense of what they encounter, allowing them to connect
information and draw conclusions. This engagement transforms reading into a meaningful interaction with the
text, where the reader actively constructs knowledge.
Extensive vs. Intensive Reading
Reading can be classified into two main types: extensive and intensive.
• Extensive Reading encourages students to choose texts that interest them, fostering a love for reading.
The teacher plays a supportive role, providing information but allowing students the freedom to
explore literature for pleasure. This approach nurtures intrinsic motivation and helps develop a habit
of reading, as students are more likely to engage with texts that resonate with their interests.
o Extensive reading materials – materials students CAN understand (suitable for their level, age, aims,
abilities). Graded/simplified readers and setting up graded libraries.
o Extensive reading tasks – reporting on completed reading tasks.
o The role model of parents and family members.
• Intensive Reading, on the other hand, is a more structured approach where the teacher selects specific
texts for students to read with a clear purpose. In this model, the teacher assumes the roles of organizer,
observer, and prompter, guiding students through the reading process. Students engage with texts to
achieve specific aims, such as detailed comprehension or analysis. The teacher provides instructions,
text selections, and encourages discussions to deepen understanding.
INTENSIVE READING - the reading process
o Pre-reading - allows the reader to activate background knowledge, preview the text, and develop a
purpose for reading. A strategy for students to utilize during this stage is to look at the title of the
selection and list all the information that comes to mind about the title;
o While-reading - the reader makes predictions as they read and then confirms or revises the predictions;
o After-reading - allows the reader to retell the story, discuss the elements of a story, answer questions,
and/or compare it to another text;
The Reading Comprehension Process
Reading comprehension is a critical component of the reading process and occurs actively as readers engage
with the text. It encompasses two primary elements: vocabulary knowledge and text comprehension.
1
• Vocabulary Knowledge: A reader must understand the meanings of words to grasp the content
effectively. This foundational knowledge enables readers to connect with the text on a deeper level.
• Text Comprehension: Beyond understanding individual words, readers must be able to synthesize
information to comprehend the text as a whole. This involves recognizing themes, making inferences,
and connecting ideas throughout the reading.
Effective reading comprehension requires both of these elements to work in tandem. Without a solid
vocabulary, readers struggle to understand the text, and without comprehension skills, they cannot derive
meaning from the vocabulary they know.
Effective Reading Activities
To enhance reading skills and comprehension, teachers can employ a variety of reading activities. These
activities engage students in different ways and encourage active participation:
• Reading Aloud: This technique allows students to practice pronunciation and fluency while improving
their listening skills.
• Questioning: Asking students to answer questions about the text promotes critical thinking and
comprehension.
• Multiple Choice Comprehension: This activity tests students’ understanding and encourages them to
analyze the material.
• True/False Exercises: These tasks help students distinguish between factual information and
misconceptions.
• Gap Filling: This activity enhances vocabulary and reinforces understanding of key concepts.
• Summarization: Students condense the material, fostering comprehension and reinforcing main ideas.
• Word Formation: This exercise builds vocabulary and encourages students to explore language
structures.
• Integrated Tasks: Incorporating speaking, listening, and writing tasks around reading material
promotes a holistic approach to language learning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, teaching reading skills is vital for students’ academic success and personal development. By
understanding the nature of reading, recognizing the differences between extensive and intensive approaches,
and focusing on reading comprehension, educators can create a robust reading program. Engaging students in
a variety of activities not only enhances their reading skills but also fosters a lifelong love for reading.
Ultimately, effective reading instruction equips learners with the tools necessary to navigate an increasingly
complex world filled with written information.
