1.1 Reasons why I agree that decoding does not automatically result in enhanced reading
comprehension skills are:
1) Vocabulary: Decoding focuses on recognizing and pronouncing individual words, but it
does not necessarily help learners understand the meaning of those words. Reading
comprehension requires a strong vocabulary to comprehend the text and make
connections between words.
2) Contextual understanding: Reading comprehension involves understanding the context,
purpose, and intended meaning of the text. Decoding alone does not provide learners with
the necessary skills to grasp the deeper meaning, infer information, or make connections
between different parts of the text.
3) Critical thinking and inference: Reading comprehension goes beyond decoding by
requiring learners to engage in critical thinking, draw inferences, and make predictions
based on the information presented. Decoding skills alone do not develop these higher-
order thinking skills necessary for comprehension.
1.2 Strategies to enhance reading with understanding:
1.2.1 Phonological awareness: Phonological awareness refers to the ability to recognize
and manipulate sounds in spoken language. Developing phonological awareness helps
learners understand the sound-letter correspondence, which is crucial for decoding and
word recognition. It enables them to identify rhymes, syllables, and phonemes, leading to
improved reading fluency and comprehension.
1.2.2 Frame of reference: Frame of reference involves connecting the text to one's own
background knowledge and experiences. By activating prior knowledge and making
connections, learners can better understand and relate to the content of the text. It helps
them make predictions, draw inferences, and construct meaning from the information
presented.
1.2.3 Images and pictures: Visual aids such as images and pictures can support reading
comprehension by providing visual cues and context. They help learners visualize the
information, make connections, and deepen their understanding of the text. Visuals can
also serve as prompts for discussions, predictions, and critical thinking.