Even with modern technology and the changing pace of the world, reading — and understanding the text — still plays an integral role in success in college and career. But, more than half of the 2019 high school graduates who took the ACT standardized test didn’t meet ACT's college readiness standards for reading.
So, improving your student's reading ability is important, in addition to helping your student build budgeting, saving, and college planning skills. These tips can help ensure students are ready to read for success.
Have books and reading material handy.
This is easier than ever with e-books, online blogs and magazines, and apps for handheld devices. Whether you prefer electronic or print materials, keep them close to you at home and away to pick up whenever you have a free moment.
Make reading a family activity.
Seeing others read for pleasure and information encourages students to do the same. In addition, family members who read can discuss what they’ve been reading and connect ideas and themes to what’s happening in their own lives, an important skill.
Spend time around books.
Although it may be handy to shop for new reading material or reserve a book through the local library online, many lifelong readers spend time browsing through physical books at libraries and bookstores. This activity can raise awareness of unknown authors, different genres and new releases.
Get the most from your reading.
Interact with reading material by posing questions as you read, making connections to your own life and the world, and rereading any passages that leave you confused. Other tips for reading textbooks or other research material include:
- Check for comprehension by testing yourself and discussing with others.
- Learn to properly take notes or highlight text to call out the important points.
- Look up words you don’t know to increase vocabulary and understanding.
- Try the SQ3R method of survey, question, read, recite and review.
- If needed, use tutors to help improve reading comprehension for testing and schoolwork.
Read a variety.
No matter your reading goals, one of the best ways to become a better reader is to read a lot of different types of material. Choose some easy reading and some challenging reading for fun, knowledge and discussion. Several different lists of books to read before college are available online, and fiction and nonfiction bestseller lists can also be a good guide. But don’t be afraid to pick up anything that piques interest.
Know how to find what you want.
Library and research skills are important to discern reputable sources for research or studying, locating enjoyable materials and expanding horizons. A librarian or media specialist can help students, and classes that require independent reading, writing and research is a good way to continue to build on these skills.
