Reading comprehension refers to the ability of a reader to make meaning out of text. Even young children can begin to develop comprehension skills from picture books or being read aloud to. Readers build on their background knowledge to interpret the meaning of a text. Explicit comprehension is the ability to understand on a literal level what the text is saying (reading the lines) while implicit comprehension is the ability to make predictions and inferences (reading between the lines).

Understanding and connecting to text is the ultimate goal of reading. Having multiple strategies to use in understanding text (especially non-fiction text) is necessary to make meaning out of what is read.

see the section on e-reading for more resources to digital books

Word of Caution:

Many apps that claim to be aimed at improving reading comprehension are simply digital versions of traditional comprehension worksheets. While they may offer supports like read aloud options or pronouncing an unknown word, they do not actually teach comprehension skills and tend to be less interactive and engaging for students.

Building Background Knowledge

The following apps will help students build background knowledge and language about a variety of subjects through multi-media audio and video clips. The more students know on a variety of topics the more able they are to comprehend what they read.

Wow in the World

This podcast provides curious children with information about the wonders of the world around them. It takes them on a journey inside their brains, out into space and deep into the coolest new stories in science and technology. It is for children 4-12 years old. There are many episodes to choose from that will help build a knowledge base of science information and vocabulary.

KidloLand Kids ABC Games Songs (Free with in app purchases, ages 1-8)

Young children can choose by category from a number of topics to view fun kids’ educational songs, baby games, stories, nursery rhymes & activities. Select from these topics Early Learning, Math, Reading, Writing, Coding & more! Your kids will learn & develop new skills every day.

youtube for children (free on the web)

YouTube content offers free access to videos on just about anything, however inappropriate content can accidentally be accessed. Click on the link above to use a site that filters YouTube content so kids can view videos to learn about a variety of topics. The website cautions however, that some content may get through, so parents should still monitor their children’s use of this site.

brainfeed (free app, but must purchase a subscription)

Video clips are a great way for students to build background about a variety of content area subjects like science and social studies. This app is designed just for kids as opposed to YouTube, so you don’t have to worry about images and videos popping up that are inappropriate for children.

Words in Context:

The following two apps will help students increase vocabulary as they learn and practice using words within context. Multiple meaning words can be tricky, children need to learn to use clues from the text to help them determine which meaning is being used. These skills are important for all children and often are areas of difficulty for English Language Learners.

Speech with Milo ($2.99)

Milo brings your child Sequencing exercises like you have never used before! Enjoy 35 dynamic sequencing exercises using animation to keep your child engaged. Speech with Milo: Sequencing was created by a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist to help children develop sequencing and storytelling skills. The adorable mouse Milo brings a friend along this time to entertain and help your child.

Tuklu – Two Clues, Two Answers, Too Fun (Free)

Children 9 years old and older learn to use context clues within the text while building vocabulary which will increase comprehension. Context clues support readers in figuring out the meaning. Fun game format.

Inferencing Skills

Inferencing skills help readers make meaning out of text. Good readers think as they read, making predictions and drawing conclusions as they read along. The following apps are designed to help children develop those cognitive skill that will increase their reading comprehension.

INFERENCE ACE ($.99)

Inferencing skills are fundamental to comprehension. This app helps struggling readers build strong inferencing skills. If your child is having trouble with reading comprehension, then inferencing is definitely a key skill you should work on. The Inference Ace app is designed for students who are 6 and older who can read simple sentences, but who do not always get the meaning of what they are reading. Your child will practice ten different types of inferences. Each is introduced individually to ensure mastery. Once your child has demonstrated skills in identifying the correct inference, the app adds extra challenge by changing the type of question that is asked. Once students have mastered Inference Ace they can move on to Inference Ace 2.

Reading Prep Comprehension (Free)

Comprehension practice with fiction and non-fiction passages at 3rd through 8th grade levels. Students read passage and respond to comprehension questions.