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Reading Science Text: Challenges for Students with Learning Disabilities and Considerations for Teachers
Author(s) -
Mason Linda H.,
Hedin Laura R.
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
learning disabilities research and practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.018
H-Index - 21
eISSN - 1540-5826
pISSN - 0938-8982
DOI - 10.1111/j.1540-5826.2011.00342.x
Subject(s) - reading (process) , reading comprehension , mathematics education , learning disability , psychology , comprehension , science education , teaching method , science learning , pedagogy , computer science , developmental psychology , linguistics , programming language , philosophy
In science classes, teachers must consider the need for explicit, systematic reading instruction for students with learning disabilities (LD) while navigating the constructivist and activity‐oriented methods typically employed in science instruction. The complexity of scientific information conveyed through print may make reading science texts the greatest challenge that students with LD encounter in school. Fortunately, researchers have established that, by fostering students’ prior knowledge, providing text enhancements, and teaching reading comprehension strategies, students’ understanding of science text is improved. Effective instructional approaches and strategies for reading are reviewed and implications for teaching students with LD noted.