How to Help Students Who Struggle To Read Class Materials

When it comes to supporting students outside of the classroom, their success is widely dependent on their ability to take ownership of their own education. One way that teachers encourage students to continue their learning outside of the classroom is by assigning reading materials. These reading materials can consist of lecture recap notes, practice comprehension questions, or open-response prompts. In order for students to complete these assignments correctly, they will be required to complete outside reading materials. This can be a struggle for students who lack self-discipline or require a bit of a confidence boost in order to complete these kinds of assignments. In this article, we will explore how to help students who struggle to read class materials. 

Create a Safe Space to Make Mistakes!

As a tutor, it is your responsibility to ensure a safe learning space for all of your clients. creating a safe space can look different from student to student. The best way to create a space that is customized to your client's preferences, is by handing out a survey prior to your first session working with them. This survey can consist of questions pertaining to what kind of learning environment works best for them. Of course, as you conduct your learning journey with the student, you will learn more about how they work best. This will allow you to make adjustments as you go and create the best learning environment that challenges creativity and encourages taking chances. 

Encourage Them to Read Aloud 

Some students struggle to read classroom materials due to a lack of reading comprehension skills. A great way to help your student better understand reading concepts independently is by encouraging them to read the text out loud. As you go through the learning materials together, have your student read instructions and text out loud so that they can have a better understanding of what is required of them. 

Make Their Learning Journey Meaningful 

Encouraging your students to make their learning journey meaningful is a key component of being an outstanding tutor and mentor. Try and customize your students learning by framing their success as a way to achieve future goals. Discuss goals and milestones with your student, so that each new accomplishment is meaningful. 

Incorporate Short Comprehension Checks 

When preparing your tutoring sessions, try and incorporate short comprehension checks for students who struggle to read classroom materials. This will help hold them accountable to understanding the text and asking questions when they are confused. Comprehension checks can help you insure that your student is ready for classroom discussions, exams, and upcoming papers that are relevant to the reading materials at hand. 

Reward with Positive Reinforcement 

Rewarding your students with positive reinforcement is a great way to encourage repetitive good behavior. Every time your student comes to their tutoring session with a comprehension check complete, or notes written out, reward them with positive reinforcement to let them know they are doing a good job. The same goes for students who are a bit timider, who come to their tutoring sessions ready to discuss their readings and ask questions along the way. 

We hope this article helps you better understand how to help students who struggle to read class materials. For more helpful content, check out the rest of our blog and consider joining SiSTEM tutoring to expand your client reach today.