Making Predictions

Here are some reading comprehension activities to encourage young readers to make and discuss predictions.

1. PREDICTION POP (Examining titles and illustrations)
- The teacher reads the title on the cover of a picture book.
- Students predict what the story might be about.
- The responses are written in balloon shapes.
- Review all the predictions.
- Read the story and pause to confirm, modify or reject predictions.
- If a prediction is wrong, "pop" the ballon (erase).
- After reading, the children decide which of the predictions on the board are correct.

2. THUMB-THROUGH PREVIEW (Scanning books) * Similar to a picture walk.
- Before reading, have the class walk through the book (pictures, clues, words).
- Make predictions about the story.
- Read the story.
- The children will make a "thumbs up" sign when you reach a correct prediction.

3. CURIOSITY CHART (text features)
- Examine a nonfiction text (subtitles, photographs, captions, charts, maps).
- Record the text features that are pointed out on chart paper.
- "Think-aloud" - make predictions about how the text features might provide information.
- Read the text.
- Check off each feature as you come to it.

(Mackie Rhodes INSTRUCTOR Jan./Feb. 2008)