The Teacher's Breakroom

One of the things we all face is the struggling reader. Here are a few ideas:

One of the most significant milestones in a young child’s life is when he or she learns to read. Suddenly, a whole new world unfolds before them as they engage in learning things outside their own experience.

But for the struggling reader, this new world isn’t quite so fun. As a classroom teacher you have the opportunity, as well as a responsibility, to make sure the child who is struggling to read is given every chance possible to improve his or her skills.

Here are four instructional techniques for struggling readers you can use in your classroom to build student confidence and skills:

1. Pre-reading techniques

One way to make students feel more comfortable is to engage them in pre-reading techniques before introducing new subject matter. One skill that will serve them throughout their school career is learning to decipher the structure of a textbook.

It in order to help students understand how textbooks are formatted teachers can model how they are put together. Point out how paragraphs always began with the main idea, branch out into details, and then end with a summary. By doing this, students are better equipped to analyze the text.

Another technique is activating prior knowledge. Before giving a reading assignment, ask leading questions so that students can pinpoint what they already know about the topic. By doing this the student can build a mental framework for any new information.

Explain how the pictures, headings, key terms, and bold words highlight important facts or concepts. This is extremely helpful for remedial readers as they try to formulate meaning.

2. Variety is key

Struggling readers often find standard textbooks intimidating. Whenever possible, offer alternative materials such as an article, supplemental piece from the textbook kit, or even a website. These often spark an interest in a reluctant reader.

Doing this solves two objectives — the student builds more confidence and the teacher is comfortable with the fact that the student is getting the required content.

3. Highlight essential vocabulary

Before each reading his assignment, began with teaching the most frequent vocabulary words though struggling reader is likely to encounter. Have them make flash cards with the words and definitions to help them with this.

By doing this, students are less likely to feel frustrated because they continuously stumble over the same words again and again.

4. Pay attention to learning styles

Students who struggle to read often demonstrate remarkable auditory skills. Allow them to listen to the textbook on tape or read important passages out loud.

Also, incorporate graphic organizers such as mind maps or KWL sheets to help with reading comprehension. Older students do well with writing two-column notes as they are reading.

By implementing these four intervention methods on a regular basis, teachers are helping students still successful and one of the most critical areas — the ability to read and comprehend. This is a gift that keeps on giving not only through our school but also for the rest of their life.