> [!important] Also refer to > > [[Receptive strategies for building language proficiency]] & [[Reading comprehension methods, strategies, and teaching tactics]]. [https://youtu.be/4XTb5WDQkr8?si=o4yMcYp_1sN_d8Ya](https://youtu.be/4XTb5WDQkr8?si=o4yMcYp_1sN_d8Ya) > [!info] > > [https://www.nbss.ie/sites/default/files/publications/get_the_gist_comprehension_strategy_0.pdf](https://www.nbss.ie/sites/default/files/publications/get_the_gist_comprehension_strategy_0.pdf) Get the Gist: Reading and Learning Strategy Teaching English Language Learners (ELLs) to get the gist or the main idea of a reading passage when they do not understand all of the vocabulary is a crucial skill. This helps them to become more independent readers and enhances their comprehension skills. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to teach this skill: ### 1. Pre-Teaching Vocabulary Before diving into the text, identify and teach key vocabulary words that are essential to understanding the main idea of the text. Use visuals, translations, or simple explanations to convey the meanings. ### 2. Set a Purpose for Reading Clearly state the objective of the reading activity. For example, “We are reading this passage to understand the main idea of the story.” This helps to focus their attention on grasping the overall meaning rather than getting stuck on unknown words. ### 3. Teach Scanning and Skimming Show students how to quickly scan and skim through the text to get a general sense of the content. Focus on headings, subheadings, bold or italicized words, and any pictures or diagrams that might provide context. ### 4. Model the Strategy Read a passage aloud and model how to pause and think aloud when you come across unfamiliar words. Demonstrate how to use context clues and prior knowledge to infer the meaning of the word or to decide if the word is crucial for understanding the main idea. ### 5. Highlight Signal Words Teach students to recognize signal words (e.g., however, therefore, in conclusion) that can help identify important points and the main idea of the text. ### 6. Practice Finding the Main Idea in Short Texts Start with short, simple texts. After reading, ask students to summarize the main idea in one sentence. Encourage them to use their own words rather than copying from the text. ### 7. Use Graphic Organizers Provide graphic organizers such as a main idea and details chart or a KWL (Know, Want to know, Learned) chart to help students organize their thoughts and identify the main idea. ### 8. Encourage Note-Taking Teach students to jot down key points or words as they read. These notes can help them remember and connect ideas to find the main idea. ### 9. Check for Understanding After reading, ask comprehension questions that focus on the main idea of the text. Ensure that these questions can be answered without understanding every single word in the text. ### 10. Practice, Practice, Practice Like any skill, getting the gist requires practice. Provide ample opportunities for students to practice this skill with a variety of texts and genres. ### 11. Reflect and Discuss After the activity, have a discussion or reflection session where students share how they identified the main idea and dealt with unfamiliar words. This can provide insights for both the teacher and the students. ### 12. Encourage Use of Bilingual Resources If students are really struggling with a text, encourage them to use bilingual dictionaries or translation tools to look up key words that are impeding their understanding. ### 13. Provide Feedback Give constructive feedback on their ability to identify the main idea, and provide additional strategies or support as needed. ### 14. Foster a Positive Learning Environment Create an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and expressing when they do not understand. By teaching ELLs these strategies, you are equipping them with the tools they need to comprehend texts even when they do not understand every single word. This not only aids in their reading comprehension but also builds their confidence as independent learners.