Connecting

// Connecting // “The way a book is read – which to say is, the qualities a reader brings to a book – can have as much to do with its worth as anything the author put into it.”  - Norman Cousins, editor and writer

Connections
Connections are used to deepen comprehension. Our previous experiences, knowledge, emotions, and understandings affect what and how we learn (Harvey & Goudvis, 2000). When we connect to the text we are able to better understand what we are reading (Harvey & Goudvis, 2000). Accessing prior knowledge and experiences is a good starting place because we all have experiences, knowledge, opinions, and emotions that we can draw upon.

One way for students to begin to make connections is through their schema. Schema is an important aspect for students making connections. Schema is the background knowledge and experience readers bring to the text. Good readers draw on prior knowledge and experience to help them understand what they are reading and are thus able to use that knowledge to make connections. It includes your feelings, experiences, thoughts and opinions all wrapped up into one. When students are aware of their schema, it allows them to remember new information, and allows them to connect to what is known. When we teach students how to activate and access their schema, we enhance the possibilities for them to have meaningful connections to the text.

Open the following file for more information on Connecting and the types of connections: 




 * Connections **
 * Making Connections  from **Into the Book**
 * Picture Book List for Making Connections  from the **Reading Lady**