All of our learners come to us with unique stories! But adults who struggle with reading all share some common traits. Isolated, each indicator may not mean anything. When grouped together over time though, a pattern emerges.
Follow along each week as we list out some common traits you’ll notice in adults who struggle with reading.
Know someone who needs help reading?
Have them call 803-216-5663 to set up an appointment.
On this Memorial Day, let us all pause to remember those courageous souls who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. Their memory lives on in the hearts of a grateful nation and those they left behind. May their legacy forever inspire us to strive for a better tomorrow. 🕊️
“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”
– Dr. Suess
TIPS FOR TUTORS
Great! Your learner has made significant progress in sounding out words and short phrases. Now what? How do you help them understand what they’ve just read?
Here are a few ways to cultivate reading comprehension!
1️⃣ Activate Prior Knowledge
Help your learner connect new information to their existing knowledge. When reading, encourage them to draw on their experiences, opinions, and emotions. This connection enhances comprehension and encourages critical thinking.
2️⃣ Encourage Visualization
Guide your learner to create mental images while reading. Encourage them to imagine the settings, characters, and events as if watching a movie in their mind. This visualization technique enhances comprehension and makes reading a more immersive experience.
3️⃣ Ask Thought-Provoking Questions
Engage your learner in meaningful discussions about the reading material. Pose open-ended questions that encourage them to think deeper, analyze the text, and express their thoughts. This interactive approach stimulates their comprehension and prompts active engagement.
Implementing these strategies will help your learner develop strong reading comprehension skills, enabling them to understand and appreciate the stories they encounter fully.
Together, you’ll unlock the power of comprehension and open doors to new worlds through the magic of reading.
Keep up the incredible impact you’re making! 🚀📖
TIPS FOR TUTORS
As a volunteer tutor, you play a vital role in building your learner’s confidence and nurturing their reading skills.
Here are a few ways to build confidence during your reading sessions.
1️⃣ Celebrate Progress
Recognize and celebrate every milestone your adult learner achieves along their reading journey. Whether it’s sounding out a letter, mastering a new word, completing a sentence, or reading a full page, acknowledge their efforts and express genuine praise. This positive reinforcement boosts their confidence and motivates them to keep pushing forward.
2️⃣ Provide Supportive Feedback
Offer constructive feedback encouragingly. Point out areas of improvement while still highlighting their strengths. This balanced approach helps learners identify areas for growth without feeling discouraged, fostering a growth mindset and a willingness to learn.
3️⃣ Practice Active Listening
Pay attention to your learner’s needs and concerns. Actively listen to their thoughts, questions, and challenges. Showing empathy creates a safe space for them to express themselves and admit their difficulties.
With your guidance and support, your learner will gain the self-assurance they need to embrace reading as a joyful and empowering experience.
Keep up the fantastic work! 🌟📚
📣 Saturday Shout Out – Meet Our Board
Emily is a Columbia native who has taught private piano lessons for the last twelve years. Her bachelors degree in interdisciplinary studies from USC centers on education. Emily is the mother of two young girls, a military spouse, and a current Masters of Library and Information Sciences at USC. As an adult with learning difficulties, Emily understands the importance of encouraging others to seek the help they need to better their lives and the lives of their community.
Role: Emily is the first chair of our new Community Engagement subcommittee.
Turning Pages SC is governed by a board of 12 awesome, diverse leaders. Learn more:
👉🏽 https://turningpagessc.org/about-us/board-of-directors/
