TIPS FOR READING COMPREHENSION: Highlighting and answering questions

1. Read story through completely and carefully
2. Read all questions
3. Re-read story and underline or highlight facts from questions
4. Make notes in columns
5. Circle unfamiliar words and LOOK THEM UP
6. Use sticky notes for definitions next to word, or reminders
7. Answer questions, looking at story and highlights, notes and definitions
8. Check your answers – is this really in the story?
9. Check all spelling, punctuation and to see if answer sounds right.

I know, I know – this is tedious and takes time. Do it though, you need it. I know very few students that have good comprehension plus a grasp of correct grammar and sentence construction in answering the questions.

As you practice this procedure over and over, you will not only answer more correctly, but will eventually be able to more automatically (mentally) highlight important details that you anticipate might be asked about. This is true reading comprehension. The attention to detail in your answers will also come more automatically – correct grammar, punctuation and double-checking to see if you truly answered the question.

Pinecone provides daily practice in these procedures including vocabulary development, grammar and test-taking skills.