Decoding, Encoding, Comprehending….

Decoding, Encoding, Reading Fluently, and Comprehending Text

Decoding is the ability to read a word with accuracy.
 Encoding is spelling and writing a text with accuracy.
 Reading Fluently is the ability to read a text smoothly with phrasing and intonation.  Fluency aids in comprehension but does not ensure comprehension.
 Comprehending a text refers to the understanding of a text, and the ability to express ones understanding using multiple reading strategies.
 Important points to consider:
·      A student may be able to decode and read with fluency but have limited comprehension.  This child needs purely comprehension instruction using explicit reading instruction focusing on reading strategies such as: main idea and details, sequence of events, cause and effect, inferring, drawing conclusions, summarizing, synthesizing, and evaluating.  It is not productive for a child to be pushed to read more challenging texts, just because they can say words correctly.  If anything, the child should start at a lower level to build the basics of comprehension.

·      A poor decoder and encoder who struggle with fluency may have strong comprehension.  In this case a systematic approach to teaching phonics and fluency is the approach to take.

Understanding what is read is by far the most important goal of reading; therefore discussing texts with your student or child is imperative.  Students who struggle with decoding and fluency need to take part in the pleasure of reading.  In order for them to feel ownership over the process, they need to develop a love of reading.  At home, reading needs to be associated with a relaxing, pleasurable time.  

My favorite quote this week…

“Children are made readers on the laps of their parents” –Emilie Buchwald
  

Recommended Website
http://www.readingrockets.org/teaching