4 Characteristics of a Successful
Reader
by Jane McGivern Levine |
http://encarta.msn.com/encnet/departments/elementary/default.aspx?article=successfulreader |
Good
readers of all ages share similar traits--four, to be exact--that not only help
them to appreciate the literature in front of them, but also create an
effective reader framework to improve comprehension and build critical reading
skills. Does your child exhibit the following traits? If not, help him develop
the secrets of successful readers.
Self-monitoring
strategies Like
detectives, good readers examine the evidence, make reasonable predictions, and
draw conclusions. They determine meaning by searching for context, picture, and
phonetic clues. Suffixes, prefixes, and root words, like little puzzle pieces,
help them to decode and understand words. Successful readers also notice signal
and transition words such as first, in conclusion, and for example. These words
help to provide structure, establish sequence, and introduce new thoughts or
actions.
All
readers become confused or lose the meaning of the text sometimes,
but successful readers know when to stop and reread the passage. They might
even use a stickie-note to write a thought or question to answer later. A good
reader also uses sensory clues and description to visualize characters,
settings, and action. Some think of it as watching a movie playing in their
minds.
Structural
awareness Learning
to identify the genre of a book can be beneficial, too. Is it a fantasy,
mystery, or biography? Maybe it is an historical or science fiction novel. Each
genre has its own specific structure. Biographies often follow a time-line
format, while fantasies tend to be plot driven.
Ability
to choose appropriate materials Children
need to experiment to find books that are a good fit for them. Many discover a
particular author or series that they enjoy. Others get recommendations from
their friends, teachers, or librarians. There are so many wonderful books to
choose from to meet every child's particular needs. Help your child to learn
how to select wisely.
Appreciation
of the payoffs
|