To learn to read between the lines, students have to be taught how to read between the lines¹

This article is an extension of a monograph published by the Southwest Regional Laboratory for Educational Research and Development ("Beyond the Printed Page: Drawing Conclusions,” SWRL Instructional Improvement Digest, No. 3, 1981).

Abstract

By the time they reach the intermediate grades; most students have had opportunities to answer questions about ideas that are not stated in print. But many still have difficulty understanding what they've read. It is suggested here that students can be successful at comprehending implied messages when they are given direct instruction in how‐to‐do‐it, and when they are given the same instruction in a variety of reading situations. Recommendations are also presented for selecting materials that will make it easier for students to learn how to read between the lines and for teachers to diagnose difficulties students may have.

Notes

This article is an extension of a monograph published by the Southwest Regional Laboratory for Educational Research and Development ("Beyond the Printed Page: Drawing Conclusions,” SWRL Instructional Improvement Digest, No. 3, 1981).