The FIVES Strategy for Reading Comprehension

To reach full comprehension of content and meet rigorous standards, learners need to go far beyond just reading the words. They must deepen their understanding by asking questions about information, phenomena, or ideas they encounter. They need strong reading, writing, language, and literacy skills, but they also have to be able to listen, view, and visually represent complex concepts about authentic texts and real-world issues.

Mary Shea and Nancy Roberts, authors of The FIVES Strategy for Reading Comprehension, walk educators through helping students develop these critical skills. The book is organized in sections focusing on Facts, Inferences, Vocabulary, Experiences, Summary, and applying knowledge acquired to write cohesive paragraphs and essays. The authors discuss micro, macro, and metacognitive processes and provide guidance and examples to help teachers implement the FIVES approach in any classroom, exploring:
Intervention strategies for various groups
Working with English-language learners
Meeting Common Core State Standards (CCSS)
Discussions that enhance learning and build community

The FIVES Path to Full Comprehension translates into college, career, and life skills that lead to success. Each part of the FIVES strategy connects to specific standards and can be universally applied across disciplines to develop high levels of competence in all learners.