Prior knowledge is MORE IMPORTANT than main idea, supporting details, cause/effect, predicting, clarifying, questioning, summarizing.--all skills that most reading teachers teach daily.

This research study* describes five types of “comprehenders” in a typical reading class. By analyzing which particular type your students might be, you can gain insight into how to help them improve their understanding of text.

And thanks also to our illiterate, immigrant grandparents, who had the courage to travel far and endure great prejudice, never to see their families or homeland again. We remember that we are the heirs of immigrants-- now teachers, doctors, lawyers, nurses, entrepreneurs-- all patriotic Americans, we salute them! And thanks, America! When you extend your hand to illiterate immigrants, it can make you great in many, many ways!

Children can be captivated here with a little encouragement. They can improve their social interaction, their confidence, and their own learning.