Inviting Reluctant Adolescent Readers Into the Literacy Club: Some Comprehension Strategies to Tutor Individuals or Small Groups of Reluctant Readers

Abstract

Developing students' ability to read is a critical educational goal, necessary in order that students can become successful members of society. Proficiency in reading increases opportunities for higher education and promotes positive social change.Unfortunately, many students struggle with comprehension, especially in the content areas. Some have special learning needs, but others are simply reluctant learners. Direct systematic instruction in comprehension strategies and the use of enjoyable texts can encourage nonreaders to become part of our reading culture. This article describes strategies that Enhance motivation Develop prior knowledge Improve vocabulary acquisition Foster comprehension of both expository and narrative texts that students are likely to find in the content areas This article is also the source for a Class Acts podcast. Download “Supporting struggling adolescent readers” from www.reading.orgresourcespodcastsindex.html