I have a prize wheel that I’ve converted into our “wonder wheel”. In each of the sections I add in a comprehension question that the students can answer. We have the basic 5W’s and then other questions that ask what a student’s favorite part is, if there is anything they still wonder about, and the part, if any, that they connected to their own life or another text.

Since we teach Wit and Wisdom we have the students to write down what they notice and wonder when reading a story. This has helped the students to focus on what is going on in the story. I really like the wonder because each student can write down what they wonder on a sticky note and we can answer the questions whole group.

Dawn and Kristen have given some great ideas for comprehension. It is also important for students to have the appropriate background information before reading. Providing them with this helps them to be able to “identify” and relate their own background to the story.

No Glamor is a good tool that uses pictures to decile language and listening skills.