29 October 2010

How to Teach Comprehension?

Comprehension involves understanding ,the intention of the author or speaker and going beyond literal ,recorded facts hidden meaning and implications. It involves ability to integrate information in the text what one knows or read and also the ability to apply knowledge gained,for instance in answering questions ,writing summmaries ,retelling the story and so on.
There are four stages which should be followed when teaching comprehension:
•pre-reading stage
•activating learners on knowledge of the subject matter.
•provide any language preparation that might be needed for managing the passage.
•motivate the learners to want to read.
These stages are based on the fact that previous knowledge and experience affect understanding of the material so proper reference before reading will influence the pupils' success.
The techniques of pre-reading stage are use of pictures ,movies ,film strips role plays etc. Word association activities such as semantic techniques.
While reading stage's goals are to help pupils understand the specific content . Pupils understand the art of using language strategy.
This stage requires the teacher's guidance which is achieved through a supply of while reading task ,for instance a list of questions that direct their attention to major ideas of the text. These questions should be simple ,for example write true or false or give instructions for others.
Post reading phase intended to review the content with regard to grammar ,vocabulary and consolidating what is read by relating to new information to the learner 's knowledge ,interests and opinions. To see an achievement level and if there can be application of what had being learnt.The while reading can also be employed.

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