Ability to read
fluently is an art that is learnt consciously over a period of time. However,
it is not fun for some students who struggle greatly with the entire process.
In this regard, effort has been made to identify some of these challenges and
how to tackle them. They are:
1.
Phonological and phonemic awareness: Phonological
awareness involves identifying and manipulating units of oral language- parts
such as words, syllables, etc. Here, a student is able to identify and make
oral rhymes, point out the number of syllables in a word, and can recognize
words with the same initial sounds like “money” and “mother”. On the other
hand, phonemic awareness refers to the specific ability to focus on and
manipulate individual sounds (phonemes) in spoken words. Phonemes combine to
form syllables and words. For example, the word ‘mat’ has three phonemes: /m/,
/a/, /t/. There are 44 phonemic sounds in English. Acquiring phonemic awareness
is important because it is the foundation for spelling and word recognition
skills.
2.
Decoding of words and phonics: Decoding
is the ability to apply your knowledge of letter-sound relationships, including
knowledge of letter patterns, to correctly pronounce written words. This helps
students to recognize familiar words quickly and to figure out words they
haven’t seen before. Phonics is one
approach to reading instruction that teaches students the principles of
letter-sound relationships, how to sound out words, and exceptions to the
principles.
3.
Vocabulary: There are four types of
vocabulary, namely: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Vocabulary plays
a very important role in the reading process, and contributes greatly to a reader’s comprehension. A reader cannot
understand a text without knowing what most of the words mean. You can build
your vocabulary in different ways. Find books to read on your own. The more you
read, the more new words you will see. Keep a list of key vocabulary and
transition words.
4.
Fluency: This is the ability to read with
speed, accuracy, and proper expression. Students that have difficulty in this
area hardly enjoy reading. They sound
awkward and may also have difficulty with decoding skills or they may just need
more practice with speed and smoothness in reading.
5.
Comprehension: This means
correct understanding and interpretation of what is read. Any challenge
in this area will go a long way to affect the student’s ability to read
smoothly. The solution: students should be able to decode what they read, make
connections between what they read and what they already know and think deeply
about what they have read.
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