This book discusses reading comprehension and associated learning
difficulties. It seeks to outline and elaborate on what constitutes
reading comprehension and also the types of learning difficulties that
impact on reading comprehension outcomes. In doing so, it seeks to
address and inform the reader about issues found in the literature on
reading. It discusses the need for a consistent and integrated approach
to reading comprehension.
The book details the complex nature of reading comprehension
difficulties and the problems related to articulating clear definitions
of various learning difficulties and the associated problems with
assessment and diagnosis. It introduces a model for classifying reading
comprehension based on the "Simple View of Reading". The book also
focuses on recent conceptualisations of working memory and its function
in regard to the complex task of reading and comprehension. It gives an
explanation as to why reading comprehension is difficult for some
children with a number of reading disabilities such as ADHD, autism, and
language difficulties and dyslexia.
The book then discusses and develops an understanding of comprehension
at the word and discourse levels. It details some evidence-based reading
comprehension methods that have been identified as being effective for
children with learning difficulties.
