Reading Comprehension

Reading comprehension is the final stage of reading development. Understanding what is being read requires good vocabulary knowledge and a solid grasp of fundamental reading skills. When basic reading skills are underdeveloped, reading takes a lot of time and cognitive resources, leaving less energy to remember what is being read. At more complex levels, reading comprehension also involves interpreting the meaning of a text beyond its literal interpretation. Can your child:

• Read a passage and then tell you what it is about?

• Answer literal questions about the content of the material?

• Infer abstract meaning from the text?

Weaknesses in Reading Comprehension may lead to difficulties in understanding the meaning of a text. If a child has challenges with reading comprehension, this may be an indication that vocabulary or an earlier reading skill is underdeveloped.