Proficient readers develop large sight-word vocabularies and their word identification skills enable them to recognize words instantaneously. However, some children experience difficulty in remembering the high-frequencing words, so, as reading teachers we need to note how quickly this ability is being acquired. Technology allows the struggling readers to immerse themselves in the literature through the use of e-books that can motivate them to read consistently. However, when selecting reading materials for students the following criteria should be followed for both easy and instructional reading texts.
- Select books that bring students enjoyment and meaning, and have high-quality illustrations.
- Choose books that are interesting and multicultural for the particular readers.
- Be certain that books present accurate information.
- Use books from a range of genres (e.g. poetry, stories, drama and non-fiction exposition).
- Use a variety of books at each reading level.
- Choose books with complementary texts and illustrations.
- Select books of a length appropriate for the desired reading level.
- Use instructional reading-level books that are challenging, but not discouraging.
- Include easy reading-level books to allow readers to build comprehension and vocabulary, rather than focus on deciphering words.
Lyn,
ReplyDeleteTechnology has allowed educators the use of concept mapping, which can also be used for students to learn vocabulary. For words, to become a part of the students written and spoken vocabulary, they should use the words in different context.This means different strategies via technological use, can allow them to personalize the words and remember their meanings.
However, I do like the idea of choosing e - books, to suit the reading level of students.The criteria you listed, if followed by educators, can motivate our struggling readers to read.
I have already tried the ideas that you both shared. What proved useful was to introduce the vocabulary using the concept maps. My focus was vocabulary expansion, it was a one on one session with just one child. The objective was to expand on overworked adjectives with a standard one child.
ReplyDeleteThe E-book provided the student with an opportunity to make the reading writing connection using the vocabulary he had just acquired.
It was an experiment that worked. The challenge in the classroom would be to get all the students connected and at the same stage of development to be able to effectively use the technology.
The good thing about the technology is that once it can help us to achieve our teaching objectives the sky is the limit.