Reading strategies are explicit, planned actions to help translate the printed word into sounds and meaning. Reading strategies begin at the word level (decoding) and then branch out to applications of grammar, syntax and semantic clues to aid with understanding. Once these foundational strategies become automatic for the student, then they can learn and use comprehension strategies to connect with and understand the text on deeper levels. The goal of reading is to understand the text and be able to apply what is learned. If students are unable to decode words, their reading will be slow and belabored and they will not be able to get to the meaning of the text.
This page offers an explanation as to why decoding strategies are an important precursor to higher level reading strategies. There are also additional resources on this page including sample strategies and a classroom video demonstrating the decoding strategies being taught.
What are effective reading strategies and why decoding is an important reading strategy for a strong foundation to ensure reading success. View Article >
Four steps are given to guide teachers in helping students transfer decoding skills to text reading. Teachers can find out why students have a difficult time with this and specifically what to do about it. View Article >
Experience sample decoding strategies and what makes them effective. Sample a Reading Skill >
This video shows decoding strategies presented in an elementary classroom as part of an effort to effectively teach reading. View Video >