What Makes a Good Reader
Reading is vital to gaining the latest information, news or simply reading for pleasure.
Here are some specific actions that good readers often take to enhance their reading abilities:
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Good readers regularly read
Consistency is the key to developing a healthy reading routine. Reading regularly will expose children (and adults) to new words as a way of expanding their vocabulary and opening their minds to new ideas. For children, cognitive development, improved language skills, increased concentration and imagination are all benefits of regular reading.
They select a wide range of texts and explore different genres
Children should be encouraged to explore different text types, including newspapers, magazines, comics, and articles, in addition to traditional fiction and non-fiction books. These can be easily incorporated into your classroom through interdisciplinary learning. For example, are you learning about volcanoes in science class? Add some non-fiction texts or articles about volcanoes into your reading classes!
Reflect on what they are reading
Good readers should be able to think, absorb, and reflect on what they are reading. This could simply be by answering comprehension questions or having discussions about the texts. The art of reflection will generate curiosity and motivate readers to continue persevering.
Use different skills
There are an ENDLESS number of skills being put into practice when reading. Here are just a few: 1) phonemic awareness, 2) sight words 3) visualisation 4) skimming and scanning 5) comprehension 6) WH- questions 7) understanding features of texts such as table of contents or headings. Don’t underestimate the power of reading!
Guess the meaning of words they don’t know
A good reader can guess the meaning of an unknown word by using context clues from the text. Not only does this foster independence in reading but also supports their comprehension and contributes to growth of vocabulary. Overall, if a reader can accomplish this skill, it will empower them to become more confident in their reading journey.
Choose appropriately leveled books
Choosing appropriately leveled booked is especially important among young children or ESL learners. A book that is too difficult may hinder their confidence. As educators, we can choose books that are 1) slightly lower than their reading level (to help boost confidence and fluency), 2) just right for their reading level (to provide exposure to suitable vocabulary and practice reading skills) or 3) slightly above their reading level (to challenge students and expand their horizons!).
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