How Predicting Improves Comprehension

Predicting requires the reader to hypothesize about what the author might discuss next in the text. This provides a purpose for reading: to confirm or disapprove the hypothesis. Additionally, with predicting, an opportunity has been created for the reader to link the new knowledge they will encounter in the text to the knowledge they already possess. It also facilitates the use of text structure as students learn that headings, sub-headings, and questions imbedded in the text are useful means of anticipating what might occur next. To predict, the reader must read with anticipation and expectancy, watching for text clues indicating where the author is going next. The inability to predict may also be an indicator that comprehension is inadequate.

Reciprocal Teaching strategies used together helps students practice reading like experts read and as they strengthen their understanding and application of the strategies, their reading and learning competence improves.