Strategy #5: Read-Ask-Paraphrase
GENERAL SUMMARY:
Read-Ask-Paraphrase, also known as RAP, is another tool to help with comprehension. I know that I have included multiple paraphrasing/summarizing strategies in this guide, but comprehension is crucial when teaching not only language arts but any content. These summarizing strategies will help students better understand the content they are reading by putting it in their own words. RAP is very simple and easy to use, and is something that students can use on their own while they read anything. I would use this strategy for students who are having trouble comprehending the main idea of the text. Also, this could be good practice for standardized tests. This strategy would be helpful for ESL students as well because it allows for the student to stop and think about what they are reading; there isn't any pressure to read at a fast pace.
HOW TO IMPLEMENT RAP:
First, find a text that is interesting and appealing to the students. Choose something that is relatable to the students. Have the students read the first paragraph. Then, as a class or individually (I would suggest as a class first to demonstrate how to do RAP), ask "what is the main idea of the paragraph?" After that is established, then identify two supporting points in the paragraph. Once the students are able to identify the big idea, then they can put the big idea in their own words. Do this for each paragraph in the text. Below is a chart that will guide you through the process.
Read-Ask-Paraphrase, also known as RAP, is another tool to help with comprehension. I know that I have included multiple paraphrasing/summarizing strategies in this guide, but comprehension is crucial when teaching not only language arts but any content. These summarizing strategies will help students better understand the content they are reading by putting it in their own words. RAP is very simple and easy to use, and is something that students can use on their own while they read anything. I would use this strategy for students who are having trouble comprehending the main idea of the text. Also, this could be good practice for standardized tests. This strategy would be helpful for ESL students as well because it allows for the student to stop and think about what they are reading; there isn't any pressure to read at a fast pace.
HOW TO IMPLEMENT RAP:
First, find a text that is interesting and appealing to the students. Choose something that is relatable to the students. Have the students read the first paragraph. Then, as a class or individually (I would suggest as a class first to demonstrate how to do RAP), ask "what is the main idea of the paragraph?" After that is established, then identify two supporting points in the paragraph. Once the students are able to identify the big idea, then they can put the big idea in their own words. Do this for each paragraph in the text. Below is a chart that will guide you through the process.
ASSESSMENT:
Like the other summarization strategies that help with comprehension, this is a good way to monitor if students are understanding what they are reading. The teacher can collect the students' notes and check them over as a type of formative assessment. Make sure to give the notes back to the students so they can use them when studying for an exam or quiz.
Like the other summarization strategies that help with comprehension, this is a good way to monitor if students are understanding what they are reading. The teacher can collect the students' notes and check them over as a type of formative assessment. Make sure to give the notes back to the students so they can use them when studying for an exam or quiz.
SUPPORTING RESEARCH/EVIDENCE
"Through the questioning and paraphrasing, students process information for better understanding of what they read. Studies using the RAP strategy have shown it to be effective."
The "RAP" on Reading Comprehension, Hagaman, Jessica L.; Luschen, Kati; Reid, Robert. TEACHING Exceptional Children 43. 1(2010): 22-29.
"Through the questioning and paraphrasing, students process information for better understanding of what they read. Studies using the RAP strategy have shown it to be effective."
The "RAP" on Reading Comprehension, Hagaman, Jessica L.; Luschen, Kati; Reid, Robert. TEACHING Exceptional Children 43. 1(2010): 22-29.