Using Comprehension Strategies – Thinking While We Read

 Once students can monitor whether reading makes sense, the next step is to use comprehension strategies to deepen understanding.

👉 What it means:
Comprehension strategies are the tools readers use to think while reading. Some common ones include:

  • Making predictions

  • Asking questions

  • Visualizing (making a picture in your mind)

  • Summarizing

  • Making connections to life, other books, or the world

👉 Why it matters:
These strategies help readers go beyond “word calling” (just saying the words) and truly understand, enjoy, and learn from what they read. Without strategies, reading can feel flat or confusing. With strategies, readers become active thinkers who engage with the text.

👉 Parent Tips to Try at Home:

  • Model “thinking aloud.” While reading together, share your thoughts: “I wonder what will happen next…” or “This reminds me of when we…”

  • Try a “stop and jot.” Encourage your child to pause after a page or chapter to jot down a thought, a question, or a prediction.

  • Practice with TV shows or movies. Before starting, ask: “What do you think will happen in this episode?” or pause mid-show and ask, “What clues do we have so far?”

These habits help your child see that comprehension strategies aren’t just for reading class—they’re real-world tools that can be used anytime they’re making sense of a story or information.


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Welcome! I’m Rhonda, a certified reading teacher and literacy interventionist passionate about helping struggling readers become confident, capable learners. With over 25 years of experience in reading instruction and dyslexia intervention, I help parents and teachers better understand reading comprehension, vocabulary, foundational skills, and the hidden causes behind reading struggles. On this blog, you’ll find: 📚 reading comprehension tips 📖 literacy strategies 🧠 intervention support ✨ practical tools to help children grow as readers Because every child deserves instruction that meets them where they are—and moves them forward with confidence.

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