KSELA4: Reading Comprehension and Fluency - Reading as the process of constructing meaning from text; the components of fluency; factors that influence comprehension and fluency; typical elements and features of narrative and expository texts, including typical features of beginner texts, and how readers' awareness of these features supports comprehension; cognitive strategies and instructional approaches for supporting comprehension and fluency of beginning and developing readers
Evidence 2: Common Core In-service Training
Description: During this training we were introduced to aspects of the Common Core and strategies to aid in comprehension, fluency and assessment.
Analysis: One of the handouts that we were given during this training is called, "Writing and Reading Your Way into the Common Core". This handout contains various activities that aid in checking comprehension and building fluency. One tool that we discussed and practiced during our time together is called "This is about..." We listened to a literary text being read aloud. We then wrote five sentences stating what the piece was about. We were also asked to extend sentence number five. The various tools that we discussed aid readers in understanding the words on a page.
Evidence 2: Reader's Workshop Training
Description: This training focused on implementing portions of "The Daily 5" (read to self, read to someone, work on writing, listen to reading, and spelling and word work) within our classrooms.
Analysis: Some might think that a group of preschoolers wouldn't be able to implement any portion of the daily 5, but they would be wrong. One of the first things that I teach my preschoolers how to do at the beginning the year is to choose a "just right" book. Choosing a just right book includes spending an extending period of time taking a picture walk through the book. Children look at each of the pictures and try to figure out what story the pictures are telling. As children develop and improve upon this skill, they are learning about reading to themselves. Once children understand how to read to self, they then become excited about sharing that book with their friends. As children master these skills they build comprehension and fluency.
Evidence 3: Building Blocks for Literacy, Sterns Center, 2014
Description: Building Blocks offers research-based strategies derived from recommendations of the National Research Council and National Early Literacy Panel into preschool and childcare settings which include phonological awareness, language development including vocabulary, shared book reading and speech-to-print connection including alphabet knowledge and early writing.
Analysis: During this workshop we were introduced to the three components of skilled reading, which include identifying printed words, fluency and comprehension. We then discussed Chall's Stages of Reading Development. After children have completed stage one, and are able to understand the tie between letters and sounds, and have developed a general understanding of the spelling-sound system, children move into stage two and begin focusing on fluency. Children learn to recognize words with increasingly complex phonic elements and read stories with increasingly difficult words. Through practice, oral reading becomes more fluent and begins to sound more like talking.
