Comprehension Strategy Instruction (C.S.I)

A ‘good reader’ needs to develop a wide range of skills and strategies.   Learning to decode marks on a page and recognise an extensive list of words is the first step.  Many children can do this fluently and yet do not demonstrate much understanding of the material they have just read.  They are under the misconception that a good reader is a fast reader.  The reality is that fast reading can be achieved without any processing of text or construction of meaning taking place.

A good reader is a reader who: 

• Understands that reading is about constructing meaning not just 'eating' text 

• Understands that reading is a very active process involving a mental dialogue with the author and their own prior knowledge and personal experience 

• Varies the speed of reading depending on the monitoring of that process
(H. Ayrey, 2007)

A good reader is like a detective.  They take time to look for clues, make sure that they get the facts right, and are always thinking about the information.  In Room 27 we are learning how to (WALHT) become reading detectives using C.S.I.

You will see the 'Spades' (Anna, Pieta, Isabella, Elliot and Jesse) in action on the link below. They will be using 'I Think That Means...' to construct meaning, and one (or two) of the 'Deep 5' to be active readers by using their own prior knowledge and personal experience.


Mr. Ish