Reading social studies Before…During…After

Strategies for Content Reading … Before Give students the “big picture” information (graphic organizer) location/key places (maps, atlases) time/key events (time lines) Connect to prior knowledge with relevant concepts

Strategies for Content Reading … Before(cont’d) Build understanding of important concepts (go beyond “vocabulary”) Discuss the main idea of the section Read focus questions to set the purpose for reading Start with an activity to involve and motivate students Read the introduction aloud or chorally with students. Preview/predict using visuals, questions, captions, etc.

Strategies for Content Reading … During Teach text organization: cause/effect chronological order compare/contrast topic, main idea, details Provide clear reading pathways Use engaging narrative -- “tell a good story” Connect instruction to content

Strategies for Content Reading … During (continued) Strong visuals should include: photographs questions to promote thinking workplace literacy: diagrams, charts, lists, graphs, signs, cutaways, maps, etc. Variety of literature: excerpts/full length selections magazine articles biographies

Strategies for Content Reading … During: Vary the amount of reading support tapes of text shared reading choral reading echo reading partner reading small group reading read aloud independent reading

Strategies for Content Reading … During (continued) Activities to connect content to students Provide strong skill development Use technology to support learning styles Use graphic organizers as a study guide Give students time to process information

Strategies for Content Reading … After Review focus questions Review vocabulary at the application level SUMMARIZE content Organize information using visual representations

Strategies for Content Reading … After (cont’d) Use additional resource material for reinforcement, extension, and application Talk about what you have learned Use activities, projects, etc. for students to apply new learning Remember to put the “social” back in social studies!!

Review and Development In Groups of three to five Summarize the Key Points Expand and Add Ideas Raise Questions for Clarification