Four Reading Methods - learning to read (Part 4)

Method 4: Context Support Method

When your students are just learning to read it is important to choose books that really interest them. If boys like cars, choose a book with pictures and simple words about cars. This will keep their interest and they will enjoy learning with you. If girls like dolls, obtain a book with doll pictures and simple words. Again it will encourage enthusiasm because they are actually looking at something they can relate to

Some books are especially written to support this method of learning. You will find a longer sentence on one side of the page while the other side has a single word or maybe two to three words for your student to read. You will read the longer sentence while your student reads the simpler version.

You may like to try this method of long and short text or maybe combine it with one or all of the other methods above. The debate still rages among educators, parents, and experts. Which approach to teaching reading works best? That is something only you can answer and it comes with practice and experience.

Most children learn to read reasonably well between the ages of four and eight. Check the following 10 point checklist, which was originally written for parents to help ascertain if students are heading in the right direction.

1. Do you read regularly with your child? (five or six days a week)

2. Do you give your child time to browse through a book before attempting to read it?

3. Do you show confidence in your child's abilities? Your lack of confidence may affect your child's ability to read.

4. Don't tell your child you are worried about his/her reading progress. This will only fuel your child's problem. Discuss with your partner or other homeschool parent for advice.

5. Does your child ever read to anyone else besides you? Try a grandma, neighbour, uncle, aunt, friend etc. It could make a big difference with your child's confidence to read.

6. Do you expect too much to soon? Don't push too hard for immediate results. It takes time!

7. Are you always rushed? Do you give your child enough time to read or write?

8. Do you provide opportunities for your child to write? Such as shopping lists, names on the top of letters to friends or relatives, the child's own name at the bottom of a letter or card you have written.

9. Are you using books at the correct level. Use easy books to encourage your child's abilities, making sure it is not too easy or you will undermine your child's confidence in him/herself. Don't choose books too hard, that also may undermine your child's confidence in him/herself.

10. If you do all the above and you are still worried, your child's hearing or eye sight may have something to do with the reading problem. Visit your doctor for a check-up because hearing or eyesight could affect his/her ability to learn.

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