This resource describes 5 steps you can use at home to help your middle and high schooler understand and get the most out of reading longer and more complex books and other readings. It was created by The Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk. Here is a quick summary of what the document includes:
1. Preview the text: Before reading, ask your adolescent what they already know about the topic, and have them review the teacher’s assignment.
2. Have a routine: Encourage your child to read at home daily and then discuss or write about key ideas.
3. Find proof: Encourage your child to find evidence in the text as they complete their assignment.
4. Make it meaningful: Talk about the big ideas and how they relate to your family and the world. Ask questions such as “Why do you think the author included this part about _____?”
5. Make it manageable: If the reading is challenging, break it up into sections and read them one at a time.
