We often discuss the isolated skills needed to learn to read, but we sometimes overlook the importance of how working memory directly impacts several components of reading acquisition.
Working memory is the ability to hold and manipulate information in our minds for short periods of time. One way working memory impacts reading acquisition is the impact it has on phonological awareness skills. An example of would be when an emerging reader struggles to identify rhyming words. When a child is presented with multiple word choices, such as hat, chair, cat, mouse, they must hold these words to compare the sounds (hat/chair, hat/mouse, hat/cat, mouse/chair, etc.) Once they have processed the sounds in their mind, they articulate the words that share the same letter sounds.
In addition, working memory can impact reading fluency. As students read, they are simultaneously decoding words, which requires them to hold the entire sentence of sounds to apply their knowledge of letter-sound relationships to pronounce written text. When a student struggles with reading fluency, working memory can be a direct reason for processing delays.
On a larger scale, working memory plays a crucial role in actual comprehension. When children read, they need to hold information, such as characters' names, events, and settings, in their working memory while processing new information from the text. Those who struggle with working memory may find it difficult to retain information from the text, make connections, and draw inferences.
If you suspect your child’s reading acquisition is being impacted by working memory, consider these additional signs:
· A need to re-read text.
· Difficulty following multi-step directions.
· Difficulty staying engaged in class.
· Test anxiety, especially on multiple choice tests.
· A need for more time and repetition.
· Inconsistent performance.
· Lack of focus and attention deficit disorders.
There are many things that parents (and teachers) can do to help improve a child’s working memory and, consequently, reading comprehension.
Here are a few recommendations:
1. Encourage Memory Games
Memory games such as "Simon Says," and "Memory Match" help children develop working memory skills. These games require children to hold information in their minds and manipulate it, which strengthens their working memory.
2. Practice Active Reading
Active reading involves engaging with the text actively, highlighting important information, and summarizing it. Encourage your children to read aloud, ask questions, and make connections between the text and their personal experiences. This helps them retain information in their working memory and improve their comprehension.
3. Break Down Complex Information
Breaking down complex information into smaller chunks helps children retain information in their working memory. Encourage your children to take notes, use graphic organizers, and summarize information in their own words. This helps them process and remember information more efficiently.
When reading, the brain is synthesizing content and tapping into different sections to process and articulate information. As a reading interventionist, I have found that working memory often played a role in why a child was struggling with pronunciation, fluency, and comprehension. The good news is that the brain is moldable and can easily be “exercised” to build this brain function. The next time you see a memory card matching game or pick up a book to read aloud, consider exercising your child’s working memory!
Believe in the magic of reading.