Building Strong Comprehension Skills in Emergent Readers (Free Slide Deck!)

Building Strong Comprehension Skills in Emergent Readers

Helping young readers understand what they read is just as important as teaching them how to read. Comprehension is the heart of reading, and even our earliest learners can start building these skills with the right support.

One simple way to boost comprehension is by asking purposeful questions before, during, and after reading a story. Before reading, encourage students to look at the cover and make predictions. Ask, “What do you notice?” or “What do you think might happen?” These questions activate prior knowledge and spark curiosity.

While reading, keep students engaged by making connections and encouraging reflection. Try asking, “What does this remind you of?” or “How would you feel if you were the character?” This helps them relate to the story and deepen their understanding.

After reading, it's important to revisit the story. Ask questions like, “What was the main idea?” or “What message was the author trying to share?” Invite students to retell the story or compare it to others they’ve read.

By guiding young readers with thoughtful questions, we can help them become active thinkers and confident readers. Comprehension isn’t just about remembering facts—it’s about making meaning, and that starts from the very beginning.

So here's the link to "Teaching Comprehension" slide deck with guiding questions that provoke discussions for your reader. Enjoy!

-Mrs. Angeline Dove