critically analyse the strengths and limitations of any two methods through which reading can be developed as skill among children
Answers
The methods which can be adopted to develop reading skills among children are:
Direct method
The student can be asked to read the same text repeatedly till he can read in a fluent manner. While using this approach the child can read something which he likes and is familiar with. The teacher can set an attainable goal for example 85 words per minute.
In order to make it interesting the students in the class can be divided into pairs of readers who respond to each other. They can read in turns and evaluate each other's speed and fluency.
Positive aspects
1. The students participate actively.
2. Students learn to read aloud fluently.
Limitations
1. Reading the same text may become boring.
2. Students may not learn new words because reading will be restricted to a certain piece.
Indirect method
In the indirect method all the students can choose their favourite books or magazines and read for a fixed time every day. They can share their reactions to books with their classmates in peer discussion groups. This helps them to develop positive attitudes towards reading.
Positive aspect - This method gives the student a chance to discover the pleasure of reading.
Limitation - The same level of fluency may not be attained by all the students.