Working Memory and Reading
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| Working Memory and Reading |
Digital Promise: 2.08.2017
Working
memory allows a person to temporarily hold and manipulate a limited amount of
information. Research shows significant differences in working memory between
skilled and less skilled readers. No approach will work for all learners, but
there are some research-based approaches that can help those with low working
memory become proficient readers.
Transcript
A student who
can't read at grade level by third grade is four times less likely to graduate
high school than one who can.
Despite
approaches like phonics and whole language, many learners still struggle with
reading. Research shows significant differences in working memory between
skilled and less skilled readers. Working
memory allows a person to temporarily hold and manipulate a limited amount of
information.
It's thought
that readers with low working memory have difficulty combining new information with
what they already know.
To recognize
the meaning of sentences while reading, students must first hold individual
sounds and then words in their working memory as they figure out how these
relate to one another. As learners grow
and encounter more complex information, difficulties with working memory may
become more apparent.
What
does low working memory look like?
➧ Students with
low working memory may be easily distracted and behave as though they are not
paying attention.
➧ In reading or
writing, they may forget some or all of the words in a sentence of sequence of
words.
➧ Or they may
lose their place, repeating or skipping letters and words.
As a result,
they may struggle to understand how sentences or words relate to one another.
How
can you support students' working memory?
➧ No approach
will work for all learners, but there are some research-based approaches that
can be helpful.
➧ Repeat
instructions and break down complex tasks into single steps.
➧ Have students
create organizers like wall charts and checklists they can refer back to when
used to stay on track.
➧ Provide
options like audiobooks, manipulatives, or physical activities connected to
learning, like walking or tossing a ball.
These learning methods can help them focus. Reading skills are necessary for student success. With awareness and interventions, it is possible to help those with low working memory become proficient readers and improve their learning outcomes for the rest of their lives. WATCH 02:11
To learn more, visit Research Map:
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