Question

Students in a third-grade class are working on an interdisciplinary unit on Native Americans of the Northeast. The teacher has selected a historical novel for students to read during the unit to help them gain insight into people's daily lives in a particular Native American nation at a particular point in time. However, the teacher is aware that the novel's text complexity may make comprehension difficult for a group of struggling readers in the class. Which of the following strategies would be most effective for the teacher to use to support the struggling readers' comprehension of the novel and their purpose for reading?

A. engaging the students in guided reading and rereading of key passages in the novel
B. having the students stop after reading each chapter and try to summarize the key events of the plot in their own words
C. asking the students to rewrite the story from the perspective of a different character in the novel
D. encouraging the students to read key chapters of the novel aloud together by taking turns reading specific pages

Answer 1

To aid comprehension of the novel for struggling readers, the teacher should use guided reading and summarization, and include group read-aloud sessions. These approaches promote understanding and peer learning while considering the cultural and historical context of the narrative.

Step-by-step explanation:

To support the comprehension of the novel among struggling readers in the third-grade class and keep them engaged with their purpose for reading, the teacher might consider using a multifaceted approach. Guided reading of key passages together with summarizing plot events in their own words can help break down complex texts into more manageable sections, enhancing understanding and recall. Furthermore, asking the students to participate in group activities such as read-aloud sessions could not only make the reading process interactive but also build confidence and comprehension by leveraging peer support. Engaging in a thoughtful dialogue about the text in small groups, where students share and discuss their perspectives, is especially valuable. This encourages them to learn from each other's insights and helps clarify the novel's themes and concepts.

While rewriting the story from a different character's perspective is a creative and in-depth exercise, it may be too advanced for struggling readers and could divert from the main goal of understanding the original narrative. The focus should instead be on strategies that build the necessary skills for understanding and analyzing the text they are reading, including the cultural and historical context.

Additionally, exploring historical reading strategies such as sourcing, contextualization, and corroboration can also aid in comprehending the historical aspects of the narrative. By doing so, students will develop an appreciation for varied perspectives and learn to apply critical thinking skills to their reading and learning process.