In a world filled with flashy video games and TikTok dances, sitting still with a book can feel quite challenging. I personally love reading, but I’m also attached to the fast-paced online world, so I understand how these experiences can make reading feel boring for students today. Additionally, the pressure to analyze every little detail of a story can turn even the most engaging narrative into a chore. It’s no wonder that many students would rather do just about anything else.
There’s no secret solution to making reading comprehension fun for everyone. But tapping into students’ natural curiosity and imagination (and maybe a little bit of their competitive spirit) can go a long way! By turning exercises into little adventures, we’re not just helping them improve their reading skills; we’re nurturing lifelong book lovers who might even choose a novel over video games (shocking, I know!).
Here are five ways to spice up your reading and comprehension exercises:
1. Gamify It Like a Boss
Who says learning has to be as exciting as watching paint dry? Turn those reading comprehension exercises into an all-out gaming experience! Create a points system where kids earn rewards for every question they nail. Platforms like LiteracyPlanet (that’s us, hi!) have figured this out—making improving reading comprehension skills feel like leveling up in their favorite video game. Who knew reading could be so… gasp fun?
2. Drama Class or Drama Queen?
Why just read about characters when your students can become them? Grab some costumes (or just have them raid their closets for the most outrageous outfits) and let your little thespians act out scenes from their stories. Assign roles, encourage them to add their own dramatic flair, and watch as they turn your classroom into Broadway. This not only makes the story come alive but also helps them understand the characters’ motivations—because nothing says “I totally understand this plot twist” like dramatically fainting on the floor!
3. Scavenger Hunt Shenanigans
Turn your reading session into a wild scavenger hunt! Hide clues related to the story around the classroom or schoolyard, and as they read, they’ll need to find and solve these clues—think of them as sneaky comprehension questions in disguise. Just make sure the final clue leads to something sweet—like cookies or a golden ticket that allows students to skip one homework assignment of their choice. Who wouldn’t want a free pass?
4. Draw It Like You Mean It
For those mini Picassos (or those who think stick figures are the height of artistry), illustrating scenes from their stories can be a fantastic way to show off their comprehension skills. Encourage them to create comic strips or storyboards based on what they read. Not only does this help solidify their understanding, but you’ll also get some hilarious artwork to decorate your classroom with.
5. Tech It Up!
Here’s another shameless plug: Interactive platforms like LiteracyPlanet offer a buffet of engaging activities that feel less like schoolwork and more like fun challenges.
With animated stories, reading resources, interactive quizzes, and games that reward progress, kids will be racing to complete their reading tasks—not because they have to, but because they actually want to! Have a look at some of our testimonials if you don’t believe me.
Sign up for your 30-day free trial and give it a go!
Whether you’re using tech tools or channeling your inner drama queen, there are endless ways to make reading comprehension exercises exciting. With these strategies in your back pocket, you might just find your students begging for “one more chapter”!
