ELEMENTARY READING
Reading is the gateway to all future education. Students must learn to read before they can read to learn! Reading is composed of two elements: decoding (turning letters into sounds, and sequences of sounds into words) and comprehension (gaining full meaning from the written word). Phonemic awareness and effortless sight word recognition are essential. Through “fun” activities we cover all areas comprehensively and successfully.
Addressing reading speed and fluency are essential components. State of the art software and technology is employed to stimulate exciting growth. Students scan reading material (including school assignments) on to the computer, where they can simultaneously read and hear the text. Reading speed and font size are adjustable to suit the students’ needs. This has been proved to enhance reading speed, fluency and comprehension. Students average a reading gain of at least one full year for each course of instruction (based on standardized test results).
ADVANCED READINGReading speed and fluency may not be enough to ensure success. Students must appreciate complex ideas, must predict probable outcomes, must recognize fore-shadowing, and must comprehend content within the total context. Advanced vocabulary must be understood. Note-taking must be mastered, and outlines for summaries prepared. Literary response is an essential skill for the mature reader. Students and talented tutors work individually to analyze and discuss passages and chapters in depth. Our tutoring plans, based on testing and analysis, are individualized to meet each student’s specific needs, and to meet the desired objectives. Our advanced readers are equipped to succeed in accelerated programs at school.