Unlocking Reading: Smarter Strategies for Stronger Comprehension

Improving reading comprehension remains a persistent challenge for students in the United States—and it’s not going away anytime soon.

Although the "science of reading" movement has led to greater adoption of research-based practices, there’s still a significant gap between what we know works and what actually happens in classrooms. A recent review from experts across six universities reveals a key issue: many K–12 teachers aren't using the most effective, evidence-based strategies to support students’ understanding of texts.

Since the 1970s, the time devoted to reading comprehension instruction has grown dramatically—from under 1% to nearly 23% of class time. However, much of that time is still spent on surface-level questions focused on basic recall, rather than on strategies that encourage deeper thinking and engagement.

At Vault Prep, we believe that reading instruction must go beyond memorizing facts. True comprehension involves wrestling with ideas, asking questions, and exploring what’s unclear—not just what’s obvious. That’s why we focus on giving students the tools to analyze, interpret, and think critically about what they read. We help them approach texts with confidence, even when the meaning isn’t immediately clear.

Experts agree: helping students engage more deeply with texts is essential. Strong comprehension skills prepare students not just for academic success, but for lifelong learning. While progress is underway, there’s still important work to be done.

At Vault Prep, our work is grounded in values that guide every session: curiosity, clarity, and confidence. We honor each student’s unique perspective while challenging them to push beyond easy answers. We believe learning should be rigorous but joyful, and that deep thinking happens when students feel supported, respected, and equipped to make meaning for themselves. Sign up for a free consultation today to see what that looks like in real time!

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