When parents say their child is having trouble with reading, they often identify comprehension as the main concern. However, this does not define the problem clearly
because many factors can contribute to poor comprehension. A trained reading specialist can use diagnostic tools and assessments to identify the most likely causes for an
individual student.
Some common causes include reading material that is too difficult for a child’s current functioning level, having an inadequate sight vocabulary, lacking knowledge of specific
word meanings, and having very limited word analysis skills. These factors have a negative effect on reading fluency which, in turn, impact comprehension.
Solutions to problems in comprehension include finding material that is at an appropriate reading level for the child, material that is interesting to read (interest may have to be
generated, especially for some of the content-area subjects), and material that is culturally relevant, which allows the reader to make connections. Filling in background knowledge gaps as needed, prior to reading, improves comprehension as well. The teacher can do this with a guided reading lesson on any topic.
Children also need practice answering different types of questions involving the use of reasoning skills and then being required to find evidence in the passages they are reading to support their answers.
Proper attention also needs to be given to increasing oral reading fluency and correcting word recognition deficiencies, as well as building vocabulary knowledge. All these factors are important for good comprehension