The following are reading literacy skills that focus on what good readers do outside of decoding the text. There are pdf organizers linked to each area, but a conversation using the organizer as a guide is equally effective.
- Activating Prior Knowledge – This is best used with non-fiction text. The activity helps readers figure out what they already know about the topic before reading the book. Pre-reading KWL Chart
- Predictions – This can be used with fiction and non-fiction books. It helps readers focus on the thinking process when reading and what is being read. Predicting
- Vocabulary – Identifying and learning new words and how they are used is an important part of reading. Here are some ways to help readers focus on developing their vocabulary. Non-Fiction Vocab Vocabulary Meaning
- Character Focus – Understanding characters by combining what is being said about them and inferring from their actions, words, and interactions with other characters. These can be used with any fiction text. Character Connection & Character Report Character Analysis
- Identifying Key Story Elements – To be used with fiction, these activities help students practice identifying key elements in a story: setting, characters, problem & solution. Story Elements Spinner Identify Elements
- Retelling a Story – To be used with fiction, this graphic organizer helps students practice retelling a story by focusing on sequencing of events. Use the organizers with any story of their choice to practice retelling the story in their own words. Beginning Middle End Castle Format Circle Sequencing Basic Story Map
- Extracting Information – This can be used with fiction and non-fiction, with a focus on finding information. Information isn’t just found in text, but can be in bedded in story, diagrams, maps, charts, and pictures. Facts Important Points Information
- Making Connections – As readers, it is important that we make connections between what we are reading and different aspects of our lives. These connections can be made between what is being read and events/people in a reader’s life, what is being read and events/people from other books and what is being read and events/people in the world around us. Text to self Text to text
- Determining Theme – Why did the author write this? What lesson is presented through this story? These are the types of questions that help students understand theme. Theme is an important aspect of literacy, for it is an element that guides reading choice, teaching, and connection. Theme
- Developing Insights – Thinking….this is the key when reading because it encompasses so many skills. By thinking…we are talking about insights. Insights are the moments when a reader ponders ideas and events and develops opinions about what is happening, why it is happening, and whether they agree with decisions. It is when readers assess their reactions/emotions and ask questions. Deep Thinking Questioning
- Expressing Enjoyment – Being able to express what you liked about a story is an important skill. Readers can also focus on different aspects of a story to connect their enjoyment to. Favourites