Activity Title - How to Read Faster

Goal/Objective

To increase the student's ability to read and comprehend material by increasing reading speed.

Lesson Outline/Introduction

The average reading speed is about 500-700 words per minute. There are some people who can read more than 1000 per minute. For many GED students, one of the biggest problems they face is improving ability to read faster. They may understand what they read, but read slowly. Due to their reading speed, many times they are unable to complete a timed test. This lesson will provide some techniques in improving reading speed.

Activity

In this activity students will identify possible reasons why reading speeds are slow, as well as how to improve their reading rate. Review the Tips for Increasing Reading Speed handout with the students. Using a variety of materials, have the students practice the strategies on the handout.

Debriefing/Evaluation Activity

Ask students how they felt in making the change to reading groups of words. Provide opportunities for further practice.

Materials, Texts, Realia, Handouts

Real-Life Connection

Have each student in the class identify a specific time that they are going to read every day, whether in class or at home. Have them set aside 5 - 10 minutes to start. Have student maintain a reading log to chart progress

Activity Title - How to Read Faster

Introduction

Ask: Did you know that a good reading speed is 500-700 words per minute? Did you know that there are people who can actually read more than 1000 words per minute? I know that those numbers sound impossible. But it is true. If you practice and use some of these strategies, you can improve your reading speed. For many, the biggest challenge is improving their reading speed. This lesson is designed to provide you with strategies to help improve your reading speed.

Main Activity

Say: What are some common reasons why people have trouble increasing their reading speed? Answers may vary, but should include the following:

Distribute the handout - Tips for Increasing Reading Speed. Review the strategies with students. Distribute the reading material. Have students use markers to group 2-3 words together in each sentence. Have the class read the groups of words rather than a single word to see if they can improve their reading speed. Practice with several different types of materials.

Debriefing/Evaluation Activity

This is just one strategy that you can use to improve your reading speed. But, these strategies will not work unless you practice. Have a set time in each day that you can practice these techniques. Keep a log to track your progress.