DEVELOPING COMPREHENSION SKILLS

According to Erik Mickelson, one of the most important skills learned in elementary is reading comprehension. It means that the learners understand the text fully found in the book or other reading materials. Reading comprehension is one of the advocacies of the Department of Education. It is the foundation for all other academic skills. Having good comprehension skills gain better understanding from what they read and find its meaning. Being able to read and understand through communication empowers us to make good decisions in our lives. It also engages every child to become active readers in the classroom scenario. It is a pre-requisite for children to become aware in reading activity. It starts from phonics knowledge and ability to decode words from the text. When the children have their own techniques, they can easily grasp and strong understanding after reading a text. By assessing the learners every day, it includes their strengths and weaknesses in reading. Without comprehension skills, the process becomes lacking for the learners. The power of comprehension is both interactive and strategic for an experienced reader. As they absorb and learn unfamiliar words and concepts daily, they can learn the structure of reading as well as help them to improve their cognitive skills in understanding the text. It is vital that reading encompasses all the facets of learning in the teaching-learning process. All learning areas need to adopt the knowledge on reading. Students who read independently develop their reading comprehension, verbal fluency and writing skills. Additionally, reading builds connections between the reader and ideas. It also sharpens one’s mind and strengthens language structure among learners. The purpose of reading is one of the most key factors in improving learner’s comprehension. A child who loves reading becomes more enjoyable, fun, and informative. It also brings success in school, work, and life in general. Reading improves memory, focus, empathy, and communication skills. It also reduces stress and improves one’s mental health to have strong relationships in life. As an emphasis on literacy helps develop higher levels of focus and concentration among children.

-oOoThe author is Teacher II at Palimpe Elementary School Masantol North District