How can a teacher best support reading comprehension in a science lesson?

Pre-teaching vocabulary specific to the science content is crucial for enhancing reading comprehension within science lessons. When students are familiar with the key terminology and concepts before delving into more complex texts, they are better equipped to make sense of the material. Science often includes specialized language that can be a barrier to understanding; therefore, when teachers take the time to introduce and explain this vocabulary ahead of time, it sets the stage for improved comprehension.

By ensuring that students understand the language used in the text, they can not only read the words but also grasp the underlying concepts being communicated. This preparation helps build context and makes it easier for students to integrate new information with their existing knowledge, leading to a deeper understanding of scientific principles. It's a proactive approach that empowers students to engage more effectively with the lesson and enhances their ability to analyze and synthesize the information presented.