I think for complex texts students definitely need explicit instruction and many opportunities to practice using taught comprehension strategies. As the article states these texts require unbroken focus to decipher and analyze what is being read. My students will often read a text not fully understand it but continue reading. They do not independently consider using strategies such as re-reading, visualizing or using context clues. It seems that if students can't read or understand the material quickly and easily, they just give up and lose interest.
Students seem to pick up digital and multi-tasking activities without a lot of direct instruction at least from teachers. They are very interested in the technology and use it frequently in their daily life. I have 2 nieces ages 6 and 8 that go from the cell phone games to the ipad to the tv. If not engaged at all times they claim to bored. I think the ending discussion today that centered around "balance" summed it up pretty well. Students (kids) should have time to engage in the various technologies but also they then need to unplug and focus when that is required. Technology such as videos can also be used to help build background knowledge so that students may be more interested in reading about it later.
Ed, I couldn't agree with you more! We absolutely need to teach students how to read without interruptions. Complex texts take focus, and that is an area where this generation is weak. They naturally pick up the digital activities from watching others and manipulating their technological devices, however it is rare for students to have that unsolicited, quiet time for reading. In school, we have the opportunity to provide this structure and teach how to effectively concentrate and think deeply.
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