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Reading comprehension

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Reading comprehension is understanding and making meaning from text, by combining word reading, language knowledge and thinking skills.

Topic: Reading and writing instruction

In plain terms

Comprehension depends on accurate word reading and on language comprehension: vocabulary, background knowledge, grammar and reasoning. Students may struggle because of either, or both. Strategies like summarizing, questioning and monitoring understanding help, but they work best on a foundation of strong decoding and knowledge.

How it shows up in an IEP

Comprehension goals should be specific: retelling key details, answering inferential questions, identifying main ideas, or using text evidence, at a stated text level. Checking decoding first shows whether the problem is reading words or understanding.

Example

Given a fourth-grade informational passage read independently, a student will answer 4 of 5 questions about main idea and supporting details on weekly probes.

Related terms

  • InferenceAn inference is a conclusion a reader or listener draws by combining clues in the text with their own knowledge.
  • Oral reading fluencyOral reading fluency is reading text aloud accurately, at a good rate, and with appropriate expression.
  • Graphic organizerA graphic organizer is a visual framework, such as a chart, map or diagram, that helps students organize ideas, information or steps.
  • Constructed responseA constructed response is a question students answer in their own words, such as a short written explanation, rather than choosing from options.
  • Receptive languageReceptive language is the ability to understand language: words, sentences, directions, questions and stories.

On IEP Atlas

This page describes special education terms and federal rules in general terms and is not legal advice. Our editorial policy explains how IEP Atlas writes and reviews content. Browse all 244 terms.