What are the principles behind the teaching of reading?

There are several principles behind the teaching of reading that can help students become effective and competent readers. Below are some of the key principles:
1. Reading is an interactive process: Reading is not just a passive activity of decoding words on a page. It involves a process of interaction between the reader and the text, where readers actively engage with the material and use a variety of strategies to comprehend the text.
2. Reading is a skill that can be developed: Reading is not an innate ability; it is a skill that can be developed with practice and instruction. Teachers can help students develop their reading skills by providing opportunities for extensive reading, explicit instruction in reading strategies, and regular feedback and assessment.
3. Reading comprehension is influenced by prior knowledge: Students’ prior knowledge and experiences influence their ability to comprehend a text. Therefore, teachers should activate students’ prior knowledge before reading and help them make connections between what they already know and what they are reading.
4. Reading comprehension involves making inferences: Effective readers use prior knowledge, context clues, and other information to make inferences and draw conclusions about the text. Teachers can help students develop their inferential skills by providing opportunities for explicit instruction and modeling.
5. Vocabulary development is essential for reading comprehension: Vocabulary knowledge is critical for reading comprehension, and teachers should provide explicit instruction in vocabulary development, including teaching students how to use context clues and word parts to decipher unfamiliar words.
6. Reading should be purposeful and meaningful: Reading should have a clear purpose and be connected to students’ interests and needs. Teachers should provide opportunities for students to read authentic materials, such as news articles, literature, and online resources, that are relevant and engaging.
Overall, the principles of teaching reading emphasize the importance of active engagement, skill development, prior knowledge, inferencing, vocabulary development, and meaningful and purposeful reading. By incorporating these principles into their teaching, teachers can help students become competent and effective readers.