Final answer:
Reading comprehension in second grade is most effectively taught through strategies like close reading, annotating, and analyzing texts. This approach develops critical thinking and preparation for formal essay writing. Formative assessments are used to reinforce the learning outcomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
By second grade, the most effective approach to teaching reading comprehension emphasizes practices like reading closely, annotating, analyzing, and reflecting to deepen understanding of the text. It also includes strategies such as looking up unknown words, taking meaningful notes, and asking questions for better engagement with the reading material. These techniques help students not only grasp the text's content but also develop critical thinking skills necessary for analyzing and evaluating texts. Moreover, such methods prepare students for writing formal essays by documenting initial impressions and forming arguments based on textual evidence.
Formative assessments like Grasp Checks, Practice Problems, and Check Your Understanding help in reviewing and reinforcing the concepts learned. Furthermore, when reading new and challenging content, such as a philosophical text, employing a systematic method of pre-read, first read, and close read can significantly improve comprehension. By practicing these strategies, students build a flexible approach to reading and rereading, which is essential for academic success in topics that require critical analysis and in-depth understanding.