As your student moves into his late-elementary and middle school years, you may find that your student is beginning to use textbooks for independent study. Give your student a strong start in independent study by teaching them the habit of “pre-reading”.
Teaching your student to pre-read his textbooks and other non-fiction text is a valuable reading comprehension and study skill. Many students make the mistake of just opening their textbook and starting to read the assigned chapter “cold” without any prior preparation for reading.
Taking time to learn how the reading assignment is structured, and what will be taught helps your student organize his thinking before beginning to read. Learning the habit of pre-reading or previewing a chapter before actual study will improve comprehension and retention of material.
Here is a helpful organizer chart to help you and your student practice the skill of pre-reading.
Click on the links below to print a copy of the organizer sheet and instructions.
Pre-Reader Organizer Instructions
The Adventist Home Educator 