Research shows that peer interaction supports learners in understanding and applying new vocabulary, developing reading skills, and improving reading comprehension. Teachers play a vital role in supporting peer learning, yet we know little about teachers' perspectives on the value of peer learning. This study explores the processes through which…

The purpose of this study was to examine three seventh grade R180 teachers' perceptions regarding the local setting factors and role of the teacher impacting the program's implementation across the three middle schools. The conceptual framework guiding this study was derived from the Scholastic R180 Logic-of-Change Model, which depicts an…

Describes the S4R reading/study system, discusses each of its components (survey, read, recite, review), explains how it is used by the teacher in the classroom, and reports initial research findings concerning its use. (FL)

Critical reading is a continuous process, only beginning in the first grade, which necessitates carefully planned training by qualified teachers. By building upon the student's competence in literal reading, interpretation, evaluation, integration of facts, accurate recall, and reorganization of materials, the teacher can develop the student's…

Without the development of reading fluency as part of reading instruction, teachers may end up with a classroom full of students who read roughly and slowly, and who may not completely gather the important information from the text. One strategy to increase fluency is the fluency development lesson (FDL) that includes seven steps modeled by the…

Discusses separating good readers from poor readers. Defines strategies for accomplishing academic tasks. Finds that poor readers lack appropriate strategies to correct their comprehension problems. Reports results of interviews with 60 fifth-grade expert readers. Concludes that through direct, systematic teaching and guided practice of reading…

Assists teachers in improving the reading comprehension skills of students by using critical thinking strategies which can be integrated into the curriculum and adapted to many grade levels. Describes strategies grouped under microcomputer instruction, cooperative learning, and higher-order questions. Recommends that teachers integrate critical…

One aspect of a balanced reading program is thinking activities that involve analytic, creative, critical and other higher level behaviors relative to reading selections. The following questions discussed in the paper are meant to be helpful as guidelines for principals in purchasing materials, supervising teachers, and evaluating the effects of…

According to this paper, a good reading teacher is able to analyze problems faced by students in reading and remediate that which is necessary. The paper stresses that the reading teacher needs to be a good observer of student reading habits to notice where to intervene to improve the skills and attitudes of the reader. It discusses diagnosis and…

The reasons some children struggle with reading are as varied as the children themselves. From trouble decoding words to problems retaining information, reading difficulties are complex. All kids, says the International Reading Association, "have a right to instruction designed with their specific needs in mind." The question is how to identify…

Discusses what school professionals, parents, and PTAs can do to help middle and high school students comprehend and think critically about what they read, as well as encourage them to read outside of school. For example, teachers can create cooperative groups to study portions of text, parents can model reading at home, and PTAs can organize book…

Reviews the literature relevant to the subject of comprehension monitoring and offers ideas from the reading research for how students can improve their comprehension and how teachers can tell if students understand what they read. (JC)

Argues that the perception of cohesion is an important factor in reading development. Suggests that teachers familiar with the devices that make text can help readers keep on track during comprehension. (FL)

Provides a number of ways teachers can use newspapers to teach comprehension and critical thinking and to help students develop sensitivity in awareness of the self, the community, the nation, and the world. (FL)

Lists 27 suggestions for improving reading, including asking for educated guesses at unknown words and reading with children while holding the book so that children can see the words. (DF)