Category Archives: Fluency Interventions

Tools for Improved Reading Comprehension and Spelling

Reading comprehension and spelling skills improve a person’s ability to understand written information and communicate ideas clearly. Good reading comprehension helps with school and everyday tasks, while strong spelling skills help with clear and professional written communication. These skills are essential in today’s digital age and are important for academic success and beyond. Educators play a crucial role in teaching these skills and empowering students to become skilled readers, confident writers, and lifelong learners.

Listed below are tools that help improve reading comprehension and spelling in students:

Focus Improvement: Reading Strips

Reading strips, simple yet effective tools, assist in focusing on one line of text at a time. They narrow the field of vision, reduce visual distractions, and make it easier to concentrate. This focused reading method helps readers process information more effectively, improving their comprehension. Additionally, by isolating individual lines, reading strips can aid in recognizing spelling patterns and enhancing spelling accuracy through focused practice.

Visual Comfort: Colored Overlays

Colored overlays are sheets or filters tinted in various colors that provide subtle aids with significant benefits. They alleviate visual strain, make reading more comfortable, and adjust contrast while reducing glare. This enhances the reading experience, making it less tiring and more enjoyable. As readers feel more relaxed, they can better focus on understanding the text, which in turn can improve spelling skills through increased exposure to correctly spelled words.

Accessible Reading: Electronic Tools

Electronic reading tools provide convenient alternatives for accessing written material. For example, dyslexia-friendly fonts improve readability for all readers, reducing the likelihood of misreading words and enhancing overall comprehension. By offering multiple ways to engage with text, electronic tools accommodate different learning styles, ensuring that everyone can enhance their reading and spelling skills.

Spelling Assistance: Tools for Accuracy

Spelling assistance tools provide valuable support for individuals looking to improve their spelling proficiency. These tools provide quick access to commonly misspelled words and frequently used vocabulary, helping users to identify and correct errors. By offering immediate feedback, they encourage active learning and reinforce correct spelling patterns. As users become more familiar with correctly spelled words, they gain confidence in their spelling abilities, leading to greater accuracy in written communication.

Active Learning: Highlighting Tools

These tools allow users to mark and annotate important points in the text, promoting deeper exploration and understanding of the material. By repeatedly encountering correctly spelled words and key concepts, users can enhance their spelling proficiency while reinforcing their comprehension of the text. This active participation in the learning process fosters a stronger connection with the material, resulting in better retention and mastery of both reading and spelling skills.

For more information on reading tools by See-n-Read, visit 2533 Sutton Lane, Aurora, IL 60502-9461, or call 1-630-236-5592. You can also browse the reading tools at www.see-n-read.com or connect on Facebook and YouTube.

Desc: The article discusses practical tools to improve reading comprehension and spelling skills. Learn about reading strips, colored overlays, electronic reading tools, spelling assistance tools, and highlighting tools.

How Reading Fluency Helps in Academic Grades

Reading fluency is an essential skill to master. It is the ability to read precisely, smoothly with an impeccable speech expression. With multiple benefits of reading such as increased mental ability, emotional intelligence & communication skills; it also uplifts the academic performance of a child. Let us delve deeper to understand how reading fluency helps in academic grades.

Builds Coordination Between Recognition & Comprehension

Fluency in reading helps to build a strong coordination & connection between word recognition and understanding. It allow students to comprehend the text without have to read it multiple times. This saves a good amount of time and empower children to learn their lessons within a lot less time. Moreover, it makes learning process more convenient & smooth.

Increased Focus & Retention

Reading acumen & academic outcome is strongly interrelated. With good reading skills, a student is able to utilize his focus to grasp knowledge and develops deeper understanding of the written text. Children tends to build efficacy to pay attention, retain information and engage into silent reading. Their concentration doesn’t get diverged; as for a fluent reader, reading becomes more of an organic & spontaneous process.  Furthermore, it helps to polish cognitive skills of a child, thereby expanding the dimensions of his/her mental capabilities.

Builds Confidence

Competency in reading is one of those skills which boost confidence in children. It empowers them to present themselves with conviction. By adding wings to their zeal, they feel encouraged to achieve more in academics.

 Enhanced Expression of Speech

With a good command over reading, a child is more likely to develop a better expression of speech. They become better in explaining things & facts, which eventually prepares them to be a part of debate and declamation competitions. A clear speech with rich expression is a skill which brings a lot of positive outcomes in academics as well as in life in general.

All these factors eventually contributes in acquiring good academic grades & performance.

 See-N-Read provides affordable, research-based and classroom-tested methods and devices to improve reading, thinking and learning. We offer reading and instructional tool for PCs, colour tags study recall system, memory mark, a quick & advanced reference guide to improve spelling and vocabulary, support for struggling writers & readers, efficacious reading strategies and diverse innovative & users proven reading solutions to enhance the reading fluency.

You can visit us at 2533 Sutton Lame, Aurora, IL 60502-9461. For further information and details, fill the contact form available at our website.

Tips on Improving Concentration while Reading

Reading stimulates intelligence and strengthens analytical abilities of human mind. It unfolds various facets of intellect and helps to design an effective trajectory for mental energy. Let’s go through some efficacious strategies and tips to improve concentration while reading.

  • Identify & Improve Metacognition Skills

    It is important to consider the fact that every brain is wired differently. People have variable approaches towards learning and different cognitive processes. Reflect and identify strengths and weaknesses of your learning process explicitly. Plan, evaluate and monitor your learning mechanism and be aware of the efficient ways to do so. Metacognitive awareness helps to recognize ways to improve concentration and factors which are acting as hindrances in your reading experience.

  • Dedicated Corner

    Dedicate a calm and separate corner for reading to avoid mental nudges. Cut down all the distractions especially messengers and email notifications to create a seamless learning flow. By making a solitary spot for reading, your brain will start to recognize that space and will automatically prepare itself to concentrate. Make sure to set a correct and comfortable sitting posture to make reading more engrossing.

  • Mental Exercise

    Invest few minutes to flex your mental muscles. Play crossword puzzles, chess and various other memory games to improve concentration level significantly. One can also practice meditation to declutter the mind and achieve higher levels of concentration.

  • Take Breaks

    In order to increase productivity, it is quite necessary to rejuvenate mind, eyes and body. Take short breaks in between to relax and refresh the mind. Step outside and get some fresh air or just have something to hydrate yourself. These few steps boost efficiency of brain and helps to accelerate concentration levels.

  • Motivation

    Find reasons or factors which trigger the motivation for reading. Follow the lead and keep yourself motivated. Often times people just lose their zeal for reading; in such cases try to find inspiration or set some rewards to cheer yourself.

  • Reading Goals

    Set a specific reading target and channelize your actions to achieve the desired goal. A specific goal directs the focus to comprehend and absorb knowledge. It helps to employ required senses to enhance the reading ability and concentration.

  • Tools & Devices for Annotation

    People often use techniques like highlighting the text or jotting down some notes etc to annotate the text. While this may be quite useful in some ways, it can also lead to wavered focus. Try to use innovative techniques like memory marks, colour tags etc to ensure a smooth reading experience. Such tools and devices are specifically designed to minimize distractions and bring concentration in place.

See-N-Read offers economical & ingenious solutions to enhance your reading experience. We render reading and instructional tool for PCs, memory mark, a quick & advanced reference guide to improve spelling and vocabulary, dedicated support for struggling writers & readers, colour tags study recall system, effective reading strategies, research-based methods and devices to build undeviated focus. Beside from being helpful in raising concentration levels, See-N-Read also encourages people to be reading enthusiasts.

You can visit us at 2533 Sutton Lame, Aurora, IL 60502-9461. For further information and details, fill the contact form available at our website.

How To Encourage Kids To Read

The best way to grow a reader is to encourage the habit during the early years. Like any other habit, reading also takes time and patience to grow as an activity that a child looks forward to if done the right way. If your child struggles with reading or simply does not seem to be motivated enough to read often, you may consider using some reading tools to simplify the process.

If you are looking for some ideas to encourage your budding reader, here are some great tips:

  • Set Aside Time: Set aside specific time everyday for reading with your child. Discipline and consistency in doing so will help in establishing the habit. All you need is as less as half an hour of peaceful time away from gadgets.
  • Read-Aloud: If your child is just beginning his journey of reading, spend some time reading aloud books of his level and interest. This practice will help your child develop new vocabulary, form a connection between spoken and written words and improve attention.
  • Use Reading Tools: Consider using reading tools designed to helps readers improve reading speed and comprehension. See-N-Read is an online platform that specializes in a variety of reading and learning tools for readers of almost every age-group. The tools offered help in improving eye movement, concentration, vocabulary and more.
  • Create a Place to Read: Get creative and create a cozy spot for your child to read daily. Keep lots of books in this spot, provide enough lighting, make it comfortable and keep it distraction-free! The key is to make this space look and feel inviting for your child.
  • Chose the Right Books: Getting the right books for your child is critical to creating enthusiasm for the habit. For beginners, invest in books with exciting stories, bright and vivid imagery and interesting characters. Refrain from sticking to books that appeal to you as a parent and choose books that are easy to read and of the right level for your child’s age.
  • Be a Role-Model: Kids are easily influenced by adults in their lives. To foster a life-long love for reading, practice the habit yourself and do so in front of your child as much as you can. Talk to them about the books you read, take a book with you when you step out of the house, invest in a magazine subscription, etc.
  • Visit a Library: Your local library is a great resource for your child and can be monumental in helping him be a voracious reader. Libraries offer books of various genres and reading levels. Regular access to a wide array of books, a peaceful environment and observing other readers may encourage your child to adopt the habit sooner than later!

To know more about reading and learning tools, visit See-N-Read, 2533 Sutton Lane, Aurora, IL 60502-9461 or call at 630-236-5592. You can also visit its website at www.see-n-read.com

Know About All Products by See-N-Read

See-N-Read is an online platform that provides tried and tested reading and learning tools for every age-group. The tools are made with the aim of helping users improve their reading speed, learning abilities, concentration, memory, eye movement, fluency and more. The tools are based on research in learning theory, reading, visual discrimination, ophthalmology, psychology and cognitive processing. They are made of non-toxic, bpA, phthalate and lead free materials.

Listed below are the products offered by See-N-Read:

  • See-N-Read Reading Tools: These tools include reading strips to reduce word and line skipping. The tools also minimize pattern glare and facilitate faster reading without blocking the context. They help in improving comprehension and fluency. They consist of a research-based design and are classroom-tested (Grade 2 through college). The tools are apt for readers of all age groups in variable learning environments i.e. remedial, regular and special education environments.
  • MemoryMark: This tool complements the See-N-Read Reading Tool by offering a reading window in the form of a cut out. It makes it easier to underline, write notes and highlight key points without losing your place on the page. It can be effectively used on workbooks, standardized tests, printed documents, college textbooks, legal briefs, grade books and math worksheets.
  • eSee-N-Read: This electronic tool is a great tool for reading on a computer by highlighting words and lines in a ‘ReadBar’-a clear reading window. The ‘ReadBar’ can be resized and modified to suit the needs of the user. It helps in reading websites, spreadsheets, standardized tests and on-screen documents accurately. It also works with PC projection devices and interactive white boards. The tool helps in reducing eye strain, increasing reading speed, reducing line and word skipping and improving fluency.
  • See-N-Spell: This is a quick reference guide for spelling and vocabulary with more than 300 commonly used American vocabulary and misspelled words. The tool makes it easier for a reader to identify correct spellings and correct usage of words. It is a great tool for writers who want to use advanced vocabulary in their writings and develop more confidence in their spelling abilities. The tool is aligned with CCSS (Common Core State Standards) and STAAR. It is recommended for Grade 4 through adult.
  • ColorTag: This is a research-based tool to help readers and writers identify the main idea about a topic and its supporting details. It uses a color-based approach to distinguish the main idea of a topic. The tool is helpful for improving retention, learning and comprehension while helping a reader focus on the central idea.

Time-Saving Tools for Reading Faster

Reading is a skill that can be improved at any age with the help of the right techniques and tools. Using reading tools helps in improving speed, concentration and comprehension. The tools are beneficial for children and adults with learning difficulties or for those who simply want to get better at the skill. At See-n-Read, we provide a variety of classroom-tested and research-based reading tools to enhance spellings, reading speed, memory and academic vocabulary. Our tools are made of non-toxic, bpA, lead, phthalate free materials.

Listed below are some tools that help in improving reading skills:

  • Reading Strips: Reading strips help the reader to reduce word and line skipping. The tools also reduce pattern glare without affecting the context. Using this tool makes it easier for the reader to read in chunks and effectively sweep over the content without losing focus. Over time, using a reading strip improves comprehension and fluency.
  • Memory Mark: The Memory Mark tool makes it easy for the reader to underline, highlight and make notes without losing focus. This improves the reader’s understanding of the subject being read and is beneficial for learning new words, phrases and ideas while reading. The tool is beneficial for fatigued and struggling readers as the can re-read without moving the reading tool from the place they left it at while reading. The tools works best when used with grade books, standardized tests, math worksheets, printed documents, workbooks, legal briefs, etc.
  • Electronic Reading Tools: This tool consists of a shapeable and moveable ReadBar that is surrounded by a transparent area for better screen visibility, less eye strain, screen glare and minimal visual distractions. The tool makes it easier for teachers to present information in a class by highlighting text and improving data entry accuracy. These tools help readers to improve their accuracy while reading websites, spreadsheets, standardized tests and on-screen documents. It is a great tool for reducing eye fatigue and can be modified, shaped and resized to suit the user’s environment and needs.
  • Spelling and Vocabulary Tools: These are reference guides for improving writing skills and academic vocabulary. Writers can easily look for the right spelling of a word by searching for the first letter of the word on this reference guide. It helps writers use smarter words while writing. The resource provided by See-n-Read helps readers find the right spelling of over 300 American English words. It consists of a 40-page booklet that has commonly used words, misspelled words and special interest words.
  • Study Recall System: These systems help readers to read systematically while organizing and retrieving key information. A color-based approach is used to find the main idea from the information being read. This helps in differentiating between important information and extra information. It saves the time of a reader and also supports retention, learning and comprehension.

To know more about the reading tools provided by See-n-Read, you can visit www.see-n-read.com

How to Improve Literacy Skills in Kids

Literacy skills refer to speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. They further include awareness of print and sounds, comprehension, spelling, vocabulary and narrative skills. Literacy skills in children begin with phonemic awareness and later progress to building vocabulary, recognizing printed material, letter arrangement and reading comprehension. Strong and well-developed literacy skills are not only essential for academic success but also necessary for the emotional and intellectual development of children. See-N-Read is an online platform that provides a variety of tools and techniques to improve literacy skills in young children.

Listed below are some tips for improving literacy skills:

  • Reading Books: Encourage your child to read by setting aside time to read with your child daily. As your child gets used to the routine, encourage him to read without your assistance. Provide your child with a variety of books of his favourite genre to start with. Keep them at places that are conspicuous and at the level of your child. Communicate to your child the value of books by using them as gifts on special occasions.
  • Engage in Literacy Activities: Engage your child in activities that help boost word power, speech, spellings and more. These include fun board games that involve making words, reading interactivity books, puzzles, pretend play activities that involve the use of texts, games like ‘I Spy’, playing with magnetic letters, making a rhyming box, labeling common objects, riddles, storytelling, memory games, looking for words within words and more.
  • Visit a Nearby Library: Most libraries offer family literacy activities that are interactive in nature. The activities encourage children to interact with other kids of their age which boost their communication skills. The activities also involve reading aloud and sharing experiences, all of which help in developing literacy skills.
  • Use Reading Tools: If your child finds it difficult to focus on lines or comprehend what he just read, consider investing in reading tools such as those provided at See-N-Read. The tools are made of non-hazardous materials and have undergone years of research. Reading tools promote faster reading, better memory, more confidence, eye control, better vocabulary, spellings and concentration.
  • Provide the Right Environment: Last but not the least, when undertaking any of the idea mentioned above, create an environment that will propel your child’s progress. This will ensure there are minimum distractions so that your child can assimilate maximum information. Choose a well-lit place with comfortable seating and proper ventilation for your child to read/learn.

To know more about learning tools provided by See-N-Read, visit  www.see-n-read.com.

Importance of Reading in Life

“Once you learn to read, you will be forever free”- Frederick Douglass.

Reading is a habit that expands the mind’s horizons and gives the reader a broader and deeper perspective of life. It is a great exercise for the brain and a productive habit that enhances knowledge, increases confidence, boosts concentration and makes the reader wiser. A well-read person is a treasure-house of knowledge required for personal development.

Listed below are some benefits that reading has to offer:

  • Better Vocabulary: Reading is one of the best ways to learn new words for people of all age groups. There are books of different reading levels with vocabulary deemed fit for the age group of the reader. A reader not only learns new words while reading but also gets a better understanding of how to use the words in a sentence.
  • Mental Stimulation: Reading helps to build new brain connections and strengthen existing ones. The brain perceives it as a complex task for which it has to fire more neurons in order to understand and assimilate new information. Those who read exhibit a lower rate of mental decline related to memory and other mental facilities.
  • Stress Reduction: For many, reading is a relaxing activity that they can indulge in at any time of the day. Some even prefer reading before going to bed as it induces sleep by calming the nervous system. It has a soothing effect on the brain as it does not over stimulate it.
  • Knowledge: Reading is one of the best ways of gaining knowledge on any subject and getting to know the world around us better. There are millions of books that a reader can choose from related to his genre of interest. Books are one of the most authentic sources of research-based knowledge on any topic.
  • Improved Concentration: The process of reading requires the reader to sit still and focus on what is being read. Over time, it improves concentration levels and extends the reader’s focus as it is impossible to multi-task while reading. In fact, the process of reading is akin to meditation as one has to sit still and do nothing but read and breathe.
  • Better Academic Performance: Students who read more are likely to perform better at academics as they develop better verbal and writing abilities. Students who read books on current affairs have more general knowledge and cultural awareness which also boosts academic performance. However, for this, it is important to expose students to books that are relevant and interesting
  • Better Memory: Books comprise of different characters, plots, sub-plots, lessons, historical events, backgrounds, etc. In order to understand a book, the reader has to memorize the book as he reads and weaves through it. This forges new brain pathways that improve short-term memory recall and improves brain power.

See-n-Read Reading Tools offers a variety of tools to improve reading skills among kids. For more details on importance of reading in life, visit 2533 Sutton Lane, Aurora, IL – 60502, or call at (630) 236 – 5592.

Why Kids Should Read?

“Books are a uniquely portable magic.” – Stephen King. Books are a treasure trove for kids that offer unique perspectives on everything in life while broadening their horizons. Introducing kids to the habit of reading as early as possible has been scientifically proven to benefit a child’s mind and brain in profound ways.

Following are some ways in which reading can be beneficial for children:

  • Better Communication Skills: Reading polishes communication skills as it introduces kids to new words and new ways of expressing themselves when interacting with others. It opens gateways for uninhibited communication and makes kids confident listeners and speakers.
  • Better Comprehension: Reading helps kids gain a better understanding of the world around them. They are able to comprehend things better and form a deeper understanding of what they see and learn. Kids, who read, are likely to respond rationally when posed with unique situations and commit fewer errors.
  • Better Writing Skills: In addition to improving speech and comprehension, reading also impacts writing skills and refines them. Children are able to find better words for expressing their opinions on paper and get better at forming correct sentence structures. Reading also improves their paragraphs flow and spellings with time.
  • More Knowledge: Knowledge is power and reading is one of the best sources of granting children the power of knowledge. Reading exposes kids to different ideologies, life experiences, historical events and more knowledge that empowers them while making kids understand the world better.
  • Emotional Benefits: Kids, who read, are generally more empathetic towards the feelings of others as books give them an insight into the world, different cultures, backgrounds and countries. Children get to know about the problems of people from different corners of the world which makes them compassionate and sensitive individuals.
  • Brain Workout: Reading offers a great workout for the brain as it strengthens brain connections and helps in building new ones. Every time a child learns a new word, comes across a new scenario/situation, meets new characters in a book, etc., new neural connections are built in the brain. This keeps the brain sharp and offers other benefits like better memory, concentration power, and creativity.
  • Develops Imaginative Skills: Books unlock a child’s imagination by taking him to new places and scenarios in an instant. Creativity is sparked and kids feel inspired to dream and imagine beyond the realms they know. Reading helps them expand their minds’ horizons, seek adventure and be open to learning and exploring.
  • A Calming Effect: Children who read experience a sense of calm and are less irritable and anxious. Reading relaxes the brain and helps in producing chemicals that calm down the brain similar to those that trigger sleep.

See-n-Read Reading Tools offers tools to improve reading skills among kids. For more details on why kids should read, visit 2533 Sutton Lane, Aurora, IL – 60502, or call at (630) 236 – 5592.

Components Of Effective Reading

For reading to be effective, it is important for it to be a motivating experience. So, in order to ensure effective reading among students, it is important for teachers to use instructional materials with decodable texts and rich literature. They should use reading assessment tools, practice timely intervention with struggling readers and create an enthusiasm and appreciation for books among students at an early age.

Let us take a look at each of the components of effective reading in detail:

  • Phonemic Awareness: The smallest unit of a sound is called a phoneme; phonemic awareness refers to the knowledge of how combinations of sounds make up words. It is the ability to differentiate each sound and blend the sounds into a word. Exposure to print is one of the most effective ways of increasing phonemic awareness. Phonemic awareness improves printed word recognition and helps children to identify and manipulate sounds while speaking.
  • Fluent Reading: To be a fluent reader, one should be able to read, write and speak smoothly and accurately. Higher word recognition skills are needed for a child to be a fluent speaker. The child progresses from decoding individual words to sight-reading. The best way to increase fluency is to practice reading in the form of oral reading for beginners, listening to fluent readers, and so on.
  • Vocabulary: As children read, interact with others or are read to by someone, they begin discovering, understanding and using new words in their daily lives. The knowledge of new words is essential to their reading comprehension and writing abilities. To improve vocabulary, children should be helped with processing word meanings and understanding their usage. This can be done by encouraging them to learn high frequency words by reading both fiction and non-fiction.
  • Text Comprehension: The whole purpose of reading is to be able to understand/comprehend what is being read. The level of reading comprehension depends on a child’s vocabulary and quality of instruction that the child receives. Comprehension can be improved through activities such as answering questions about what has been read, making mental images, learning to recognize clues in the text, using graphic organizers, drawing on previous knowledge or retelling a story.
  • Written Expression: Writing and reading are like two sides of the same coin; the components of each offer strength and support to one another to create an effective literacy program. Writing improves phonemic awareness, reinforces phonics instruction, helps in understanding different text styles and also improves comprehension skills.

See-n-Read Reading Tools help in developing effective reading skills. The tools aim at improving varied reading components including vocabulary, comprehension, fluency, etc. For more details on components of effective reading, visit 2533 Sutton Lane, Aurora, IL – 60502, or call at (630) 236 – 5592.