Part of comprehension is knowing how to approach a text effectively and efficiently. Independent learners should survey the layout and features of a text before reading begins, such as table of contents, index and appendices. Have your students ponder the book's title and make a list of what they expect the book will be about. They can also draw on prior knowledge by recalling any articles or books on the same topic that they have recently read.
Independent learners need to read a text efficiently while creating resources that allow for easy review. Some find it helpful to read the introduction and conclusion of a book or chapter first, which often provides a concise summary of the content. Taking notes is an effective strategy, as is writing short summaries of each chapter. Another technique is to make a list or chart detailing the main ideas in the book and organizing them from most important to least important.
Independent learners need to challenge themselves with questions and activities that force them to think about the material. One strategy is to find the main idea or message of the text and think about how it relates to the world. Another is to come up with three to five questions or troubling aspects of the text. Students can challenge themselves to go through the text again and seek the answers. They might also try to relate the text to at least one other book they have recently read.
Difficultly in understanding vocabulary can be a hindrance to reading comprehension. Independent learners should keep a running list of problematic words as they read. Once reading is complete, they can look up definitions and write them down, giving them an ever-growing vocabulary of challenging words. For some independent learners, visualizing the text can help with comprehension. Students can try drawing pictures of images in the text or making diagrams of difficult ideas or concepts.