Strong readers warm up before they read. A quick preview helps the brain know what to expect.
Let's learn
- Read the title and headings.
- Look at pictures, captions and anything in bold.
- Ask: “What do I already know about this?”
- Make a prediction and set a purpose: “I want to find out…”
Watch out for
- Diving in without a preview, especially in nonfiction.
Make it fit your reader
- Easier: Preview just the title and pictures.
- Harder: Write three questions you hope the text will answer.
Practice activity
- Preview checklist: preview a chapter using title, headings, pictures and bold words.
- Purpose sentence: finish “I am reading this to find out…”
Tip for grown-ups: Keep practice short and cheerful: 10 to 15 minutes is plenty for young readers. Praise effort, let your child point to the words, and stop while it is still fun.