Abstract This paper addresses the problem of weak reading skills in middle school students, and suggests educational approaches to improving readingcomprehension in particular. The author recommends that teachers, the instructional and/or educational materials and the educational policies should be at the forefront in assisting middle school children to acquire the readingcomprehension skills they need. The role of each is described in the paper. Additionally, accommodations are recommended for children with special educational needs. The paper also lists the five essential components of reading instruction, describing the importance of each one. The paper concludes by stating students also take responsibility for their reading progress by practicing regularly.
Outline:
Introduction
Review of Related Literature
Factors to increasing the readingcomprehension abilities of the middle graders
The Teachers
Provision of More time for the Students
Maintenance of Research Based Curriculum and Instructional Approaches Regarding ReadingComprehension Reference List
From the Paper "Indeed, there have been recent studies conducted which reveal that reading and comprehension is becoming a challenging tasks for the teachers, particularly when they are handling the students from the middle grades. Students who are in the in their middle age of learning are already being taught for proper reading and comprehension. However, there are reports that show that there are increasing number of students who have gone to higher levels but "are still not fully equipped with the right reading and comprehension perspectives," thus a big task to teachers and other educational facilitators nowadays is how to increase the reading comprehension of students in the middle school (Snow, 2002)."
Abstract In this paper, the writer researches the subject of readingcomprehension at the third grade level. The particular issue of vocabulary has been selected to further focus this study. The writer notes that students at the third grade level appear to lag in their acquisition of vocabulary, which affects their readingcomprehension at this level. The writer points out that due to the varied perspectives on teaching vocabulary, it would appear that a varied approach is needed in teaching vocabulary in terms of readingcomprehension. The writer maintains that context, symbols and media all have a place in teaching vocabulary, although none of these things should take precedence over the others. The paper also includes appendix, definitions and additional sources.
Outline:
Problem Statement
Proof of the Problem
Chart #1a Vocabulary
Chart#1b Word Use
Chart #1c
Word Use
Chart #1d
ReadingComprehension
Goals and Objectives
Setting
School Community
Role of the Writer
Problem Rationale
From the Paper "Although this drop in proficiency is not as dramatic as noted across the state of Georgia, this drop should be taken as a suggestion that a problem may exist with student comprehension of the material being taught. It is interesting to note, however, that while the percentage of students meeting or exceeding the AYP requirements dropped, the percentage of students showing advanced proficiency actually increased. However, the total of 81.1% of students meeting or exceeding the AYP requirements is one that suggests that our students do not receive adequate Reading instruction. A goal of 100% reading proficiency does not seem unreasonable, if Magnolia Elementary School is going to prepare students to be competent individuals entering the business world."
Abstract This paper attempts to analyze the best possible practices to improve the reading and comprehension of students, particularly elementary school students. This paper identifies the characteristics of elementary students and categorizes the different approaches used when teaching elementary students reading and comprehension.
Outline:
Introduction
Purpose of the Study
Hypothesis
Significance of the Study
Methodology
Research and Plan Solution Strategy
The Teachers
Additional Time
High-Quality Research Based Curriculum and Instruction
Phonemic Awareness
Phonics
Vocabulary
Fluency
Comprehension Other Important Instructional Methods
Preschool and Early Literacy Opportunities
Implementation Plan and Matrix
Evaluation/Assessment Plan
From the Paper "There has been much debate about phonics instruction. However, recent research has given phonics another look and has determined phonic instruction is needed (Hempenstall, 2002). Students that master phonics will have the decoding process in hand and can focus on building fluency and comprehension. Use direct, systematic explicit phonics instruction as a primary component of a reading program. CIEA states, "Systematic instruction includes a carefully selected set of letter-sound relationships that are organized into a logical sequence, and explicit are programs that provide teachers with specific directions for the teaching of these relationship" (Hempenstall, 2002). The issue is not whether to use phonics or whole language in reading instruction. "Rather, the issue is how phonics is used; as a primary component of a reading program, as well as when we use phonics; at the beginning reading level" (Hempenstall, 2002). "
Tags:reading, comprehension, teaching, understanding, phonetical, motivation, practice
Abstract A paper concerning the effects of rap music and time pressure on readingcomprehension. What effects does rap have on readingcomprehension? Does time play a factor in the relationship between readingcomprehension and rap?
Abstract This paper discusses readingcomprehension methods for college students, and examines five articles published in "Reading Teacher, Reading Improvement, Reading Research and Instruction, and Reading Horizons" in order to compare current reading strategies.
Abstract This paper identifies the techniques present in three articles that focus specifically on readingcomprehension and how educational methods address learning disabilities in terms of readingcomprehension and writing performance.
Abstract This paper reviews four scholarly articles which address readingcomprehension and reading fluency. The paper looks at the main considerations of each paper, the key ideas, the essential methodologies and the final conclusions. Further, the writer discusses what he has learned from reviewing the aforementioned materials and how this will impact upcoming research projects.
From the Paper "Turning to Jenkins and Fuchs, they are aided by the fact that their sample size of 113 students is considerably larger than the relatively puny sample sizes offered by Calhoon and by Yurick et al. Furthermore, Jenkins and Fuchs employ correlation and hierarchical regression analysis to determine the accuracy and validity of their findings; Yurick et al do not employ anything approximating this. Finally, Calhoon does use the WJ-III Compu-score and Profiles Program in addition to ANOVA - but her sample size is so tiny (only 38 students) that one is left to wonder how truly reflective it really is."
Abstract This paper is three different summaries of studies completed on readingcomprehension. An interactive teaching strategy in which students were helped with note taking efforts was used as the study design format.
Abstract The intent of the literature review is to determine whether evidence exists supporting the use of a choice of reading materials in the classroom, as a tool for promoting greater reading ability and comprehension. The writer proposes that there is a clear need for educators to adopt a more open-minded perspective regarding readingcomprehension in the classroom.The paper examines how one way that administrators can motivate students is by providing them with access to a diverse selection of comprehensivereading materials. These reading materials will engage their personal interests and provide them with challenging but interesting material to review and interpret.
From the Paper "Cheak & Wessel (2005) suggest that students who read more frequently are more likely to become strategic readers capable of processing information more contextually resulting in better reading comprehension. Researchers have identified reading motivation among the factors vital toward guiding the behavior of readers and promoting greater reading comprehension. Further, Cheak & Wessel (2005) find that individuals who are "intrinsically motivated" are more likely to persist with challenging research related material and exhibit a desire to "master" the skill of reading. Intrinsic motivation according to the researchers is essential for developing deep processing and hence learning in individuals."
Abstract This paper provides a step-by-step action plan for ensuring that students are more motivated to read in the classroom. It aims to achieve this by affording the students a greater choice and selection of materials to read. It also discusses methods to improve reading and comprehension.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Descriptive Plan To Implement to Encourage Student Choices
Step by Step Approach To Improving Student Motivation
Conclusions
References
From the Paper "First teachers must work to actively engage readers in the classroom. To do so it is vital that teachers survey students to assess what level of interest students have in particular reading materials in the classroom. Teachers must also determine how children in their classrooms approaching reading instruction and what elements will result in their being more enthusiastic about learning to read (Snow & Verhoeven, 2001). This can be accomplished only if children have an active role in their development and selection of reading material in the classroom (Baker, Afflerbach & Reinking, 1996). The teacher's role includes helping children in the classroom arrange tasks and activities in a way that will make reading accessible and enjoyable (Snow & Verhoeven, 2001). "
The paper discusses the importance of written exercises as part of a more comprehensive and diversified approach to teaching English as a second language in the classroom.
Abstract This paper discusses the relevance of various writing exercises to the student's mastery of English as a second language (ESL) and argues in favor of more writing activities within ESL classrooms. The paper argues that written exercises are a vital component of the language acquisition process. For ESL students, or any other student attempting to learn another language, to fully embrace the language and adopt comprehensible and meaningful communication strategies they must routinely incorporate written exercises into daily instruction. Students who combine written exercises with readingcomprehension and oral civilities are far more likely to acquire successful language acquisition than those who focus on one method or another.
From the Paper "Incorporation of various writing exercises is vital toward promoting adequate language acquisition for students learning English as a second language. Writing exercises help students learn how to initiate and create comprehensible communication, and help close the gap between oral, verbal and written communication. Students who do not engage in consistent written exercises are less likely to master English as a language than students who consistently engage in written exercises inside of and outside the classroom. This paper will discuss the relevance of various writing exercises to student's mastery of English as a second language and argue in favor of more writing activities within ESL classrooms."
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses that among the many plausible reasons for helping students build vocabulary, perhaps the most important is the contribution of vocabulary knowledge to readingcomprehension. The writer notes that one of the most enduring findings in reading research concerns the extent to which students' vocabulary knowledge relates to their readingcomprehension. The writer points out that given that students' success in school and beyond depends in great measure upon their ability to read with comprehension, there is an urgent need to provide instruction that equips students with the skills and strategies necessary for lifelong vocabulary development. The writer concludes that readingcomprehension places heavy demands not only on classroom teachers but also on curriculum planners, community workers, and parents.
Outline:
Introduction
History of Vocabulary ~ What is Vocabulary?
The Influence of National and State Standards
Two Best Assessment Procedures
Role of Technology
"Best Instructional" Practices in Reading and Writing
Five Dimensions of Learning Specifically Related to Vocabulary
Why is This Topic Important for Teachers?
From the Paper "Vocabulary is knowledge of words and word meanings. However, vocabulary is more complex than this definition suggests. Most commonly, words come in two forms: oral and print. Oral vocabulary includes the words that we recognize and use in listening and speaking. Print vocabulary, are those words that we recognize and use in reading and writing. Next, we have word knowledge, which also comes in two forms, receptive and productive. Receptive vocabulary includes the words that we recognize when we hear or see them. Productive vocabularies are words that we use when we speak or write. According to research, receptive vocabulary is typically larger than productive vocabulary, and may include many words to which we give meaning, even if we don't know their full definitions - or ever use them ourselves when we speak and write."
Abstract The paper starts with a general discussion of readingcomprehension and its importance for academic success. Factors involved in readingcomprehension, such as phonological memory and word recognition, are examined, as well as other influential forces, such as time limitation and silent reading are outlined. Then the topic of comprehension of fiction versus non-fiction material is explored through a review of the relevant literature.
From the Paper "Literacy and reading comprehension are subjects that have been explored for decades. Through these explorations we have discovered that comprehension is an essential component in the ability of a person to succeed in academia and in life. Comprehension is defined as "the act or action of grasping with the intellect"the capacity for understanding fully.?(The Dictionary) Comprehension is important because it allows us to gain knowledge of new concepts; without comprehension it would be impossible to learn anything.
"This discourse will present a literary review of the aforementioned topic so that we can understand comprehension and the effect of comprehension on academic success. The literature presented will seek to display this information in a manner that will inform and enlighten.
Reading comprehension covers a broad range of topics. For the purposes of this literary review we will seek to explain what comprehension is and the effect that fiction and nonfiction works have on comprehension. This review will use a wide range of sources including journals, digests and academic studies."
Abstract In this article, the writer notes that English Learners (ELs) are of particular concern for educators in recent years. The writer points out that though many problems exist in teaching children for whom English is a second language, readingcomprehension is one of the greatest issues. The writer discusses that children who cannot understand and make deductions based on hearing or reading narrative texts have problems with comprehension in all other areas. The writer maintains that focusing on narrative text comprehension in younger ELs is therefore necessary in combating the overall problems associated with teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) to young learners. The writer concludes that while the focus would obviously be to achieve fluency in young ELs, all students in a vocabulary intensive classroom with thoughtfully chosen reading narratives will benefit from greater comprehension, better cohesion as a class, and a more positive outlook on learning.
From the Paper "Richards, Leafstedt, and Gerber found that k-1 EFL students have poor phonological skills, rapid-naming abilities, invented spelling, and phonological spelling, leading teachers to refer many ELs to special education. However, only 2-5% of children have learning disabilities - a much lower number than those who are referred. Administrators must identify ELs who are not learning disabled and provide intensive reading and comprehension instruction. Intensive programs for younger ELs would likely include narrative texts since they are common for use at that age level. Slavinn and Cheung also recommend that administrators provide ample classroom support and training for EFL teachers."
Abstract This paper is on two different articles. The article by Shimabukuto and Prater (1999) entitled "The effects of self- monitoring of academic performance on students with learning disabilities and ADD/ ADHD" focuses on how a student's inability to concentrate might correspond to their inability to read. The article "The differential effects of two systematic readingcomprehension approaches with students with learning disabilities" by Rabren et al. (1999) is one in which readingcomprehension among students with learning disabilities is the subject of the study.
