Schema Theory and Reading

Comprehension

Definition of Reading

Reading is the process of

constructing meaning through the
dynamic interaction of the readers
prior knowledge, the information
suggested by the written text, and
the context of the situation.

Biology is not plants and

animals. It is language about
plants and animals. History
is not events. It is language
describing and interpreting
events. Astronomy is not
planets and stars. It is a way

Purposes for reading

To Do
To Experience (aesthetic)
To Learn

Schema - an organized
knowledge structure
Schema includes our feelings, attitudes, and beliefs

Schema Theory
Our knowledge is organize meaningfully
We construct meaning from reading (and all experiences) based on what we already know
(our schemas, or schemata)

Schema Theory
Our knowledge is organized
meaningfully
We construct meaning from
reading (and all
experiences) based on
what we already know (our
schemas, or schemata)

Thought Processes for

Comprehension
1. Call up what
you already
know
2. Inference
3. Connect
4. Predict
5. Organize

6. Image
7. Monitor
8. Review
9. Evaluate
10. Apply

Reading Comprehension
and Schema Theory
1. Readers Comprehend when
they activate the right
schema
2. Readers fail to comprehend
when they
Have no schema
Activate the wrong schema
Activate schema too quickly

Aims of Education
Teach students how to acquire
knowledge on their own

Strategies