Strategy 2: Visualizing
As we read, our mind creates images in response to details in the text. These images can be sensory in nature, including not only sight but also taste, smell, sounds and touch. Our ability to visualise is linked to our prior knowledge and experiences. It is important to note that no two readers will create the same images despite reading the same text. As we read, we generate images for the unwritten details such as colours and shapes. It is for this reason we are often surprised or even disappointed when we see a film adaptation of a book previously read. The on-screen image rarely matches the visualisation process we engaged in.
As we read we gather more information which may add richer detail to the image or may indeed change it dramatically. Good readers are always revising and refining their visualisations based on what they read.
Children can be encouraged to consider their visualisations to be like a cinema. When you close your eyes you can see the black movie screen. The text is like the script and you are the director. While you must be loyal and true to the script you can add other details and actions that you consider appropriate.
Children clench their two fists in an outward motion to indicate that they are visualizing during a reading session as shown in the image above.
As we read, our mind creates images in response to details in the text. These images can be sensory in nature, including not only sight but also taste, smell, sounds and touch. Our ability to visualise is linked to our prior knowledge and experiences. It is important to note that no two readers will create the same images despite reading the same text. As we read, we generate images for the unwritten details such as colours and shapes. It is for this reason we are often surprised or even disappointed when we see a film adaptation of a book previously read. The on-screen image rarely matches the visualisation process we engaged in.
As we read we gather more information which may add richer detail to the image or may indeed change it dramatically. Good readers are always revising and refining their visualisations based on what they read.
Children can be encouraged to consider their visualisations to be like a cinema. When you close your eyes you can see the black movie screen. The text is like the script and you are the director. While you must be loyal and true to the script you can add other details and actions that you consider appropriate.
Children clench their two fists in an outward motion to indicate that they are visualizing during a reading session as shown in the image above.
