Based on the philosophy that children learn best in functional, natural settings when a desire for learning persists, this book provides classroom-tested strategies for teaching children how to monitor and improve their own comprehension as they read a variety of texts. The goal of the book is to empower students to become successful, independent learners. Chapter 1 defines comprehension and the variables involved in the process. Chapter 2 shares ways to create environments or settings that facilitate a desire for reading and writing independently. Chapter 3 includes strategies that guide children to self-monitor and make decisions about their reading abilities. A 31-item bibliography, a list of 37 works of literature mentioned in the book, and a 21-item annotated list of children's literature that facilitates comprehension are attached. (RS)