Reading Comprehension-Using Vocabulary and Guided Reading Questions Effectively

Vocabulary

• Pre-read the vocabulary so that you know which words you are looking for as you read
• When you locate a vocabulary word in the reading, note the part of speech:

               Noun (n)-person, place, or thing

               The house was lovely and spacious.

               Did you ask Mr. Jones for the handout?

               I love to go to the library in New York City.

                Verb (v)-word of action or being

                                She sauntered across the room.

                                Jennifer was so happy to see you!

                Adjective (adj)-word that describes a noun

                                The beautiful girl is so modest about her charms.

                                My new blouse is silky and green.

                                The creepy clown gave me a sinister smile.

                Adverb (adv)-word that describes a verb, adjective, or another adverb

                                She danced happily across the floor.

                                I was very sad to hear of his situation.

                                The band leader waved his arms extremely triumphantly.

• When you look up the word, choose the definition that makes sense with the context in which the word is used in the material you are reading.
• If you don’t understand a word or words in the definition, look up these words as well.  A definition that does not mean anything to you will not help you comprehend the material!
• If you are reading and you encounter an unfamiliar word that is not on your vocabulary list, use the same procedure for this word as well.
• If you are in a standardized testing situation and encounter an unfamiliar word, determine the part of speech and use the surrounding words and context to discern the meaning of the word.

Guided Reading Questions

• Pre-read the questions so that you know what you are looking for.  This keeps you focused and establishes a purpose for reading.
• As you read, when you come across the answer to a question, pause to note the answer.  If you prefer to stop reading and write down the answer, do so on separate paper.  If you prefer to continue the flow of your reading, mark the answer with a highlighter or pencil if the book is yours, or a Post-it flag if you are unable to mark up the text.
• After reading, look back over the questions to be sure that you have answered each question completely and to the best of your ability.
• Note any areas of confusion so that you may seek answers to your questions the next day in class.