Direct Instruction: Web-based Reading Strategies
Overview
Research shows that, along with traditional reading comprehension strategies, students use unique strategies to read the non-linear, hyperlinked structure of online texts. When reading online, students must infer which hyperlink may be relevant to read, make connections within and between linked texts, and interpret multimedia. Defining a goal prior to reading, creating a map of information when reading, and limiting the number of links to explore are strategies to help students navigate reading on the Internet.
Example: Use This Strategy In in the Classroom
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Videos are chosen as examples of strategies in action. These choices are not endorsements of the products or evidence of use of research to develop the feature.
Watch how WebQuest can be used to create a lesson plan that guides students through online reading. With the structure of introduction, task, process, evaluation (with rubric), and conclusion, the teacher provides clear instructions and a set of focused links for students to explore, thus holding their Attention to the task at hand while teaching them to purposefully explore the Internet.
Additional Resources
Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
Factors Supported by this Strategy
More Instructional Approaches Strategies
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Seeing and using new words repeatedly and in many contexts is critical for Vocabulary acquisition.
Explicitly teaching strategies for planning, writing, and revising texts improves students' writing quality.
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Through short but regular mindfulness activities, students develop their awareness and ability to focus.
Instruction in multiple formats allows students to activate different cognitive skills to understand and remember the steps they are to take in their literacy work.
Using multiple methods of assessment can help educators gain a comprehensive understanding of learner progress across a wide range of skills and content.
Helping students think about what they know about the topic of upcoming work helps activate their Background Knowledge or reveals gaps.
When students read models of the type of writing they are doing, they can identify effective elements to incorporate in their writing.
Through one-on-one conferences, teachers can provide individual support to each student to deepen comprehension and interest in reading.
A strengths-based approach is one where educators intentionally identify, communicate, and harness students' assets, across many aspects of the whole child, in order to empower them to flourish.
