Reading
skills are often enhanced through the use of prediction skills.
Good
readers use prediction throughout their reading. They constantly anticipate
what will happen next.
When
reading with your child, find time to have the child write down what he or she
thinks is going to take place.
Do this at the end of a chapter or in
between the illustrations of a picture book.
Beginning readers need stories that are
highly predictable. This predictability may take the form of rhyme, repetition,
or patterned language.
Help children write down their
prediction of the next word in a sequence.
They can then compare their choice with
the one in the book.
One good exercise is to make up short
stories and have children write several endings.
You can then talk about which ending is
“most predictable” or “most unbelievable” or “most inventive.”
Experts agree: when helping your child become a
strong reader, don’t forget that writing down predictions can be a valuable
tool for improved reading skills.
