2026 Reading Comprehension Institute

Offered Virtually, Workshop, Webinar and OnDemand 

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Unlocking the Power of Comprehension: From Literal Understanding to Critical Thinking

Comprehension begins with a literal understanding of what’s being read, but to truly thrive as readers, students must evolve into active, critical consumers of text. The 2026 Reading Comprehension Institute, hosted by the National Literacy Institute, is designed to equip educators with cutting-edge strategies to deepen students' comprehension skills and foster meaningful engagement with texts.

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This institute will feature an interactive and dynamic learning experience, offering both face-to-face and virtual participation options to accommodate all educators' preferences.

 

What You’ll Learn

Participants will explore research-aligned strategies to strengthen reading comprehension and accelerate student progress toward grade-level proficiency across elementary and secondary classrooms, including:

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Building Foundational Comprehension Skills
Learn strategies that support students in moving beyond literal understanding to develop inferential, analytical, and critical thinking skills, while intentionally closing gaps that prevent students from reaching grade-level expectations.

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Facilitating Structured Academic Dialogue
Implement discussion routines and questioning techniques that help students articulate their thinking, justify responses with evidence, and engage in meaningful academic conversations, supporting deeper comprehension and grade-level discourse.

 

Using Diverse and Authentic Texts
Explore practical methods for incorporating a range of fiction, nonfiction, and content-area texts that build background knowledge and vocabulary needed for students to access and comprehend grade-level text.

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Creating Real-World Connections
Design learning experiences that help students connect new ideas to prior knowledge, lived experiences, and real-world contexts, strengthening engagement and comprehension for students working toward grade-level reading demands.

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Layering Instructional Approaches
Learn how to intentionally combine explicit instruction, modeling, guided practice, and collaborative learning to provide targeted support that moves students closer to independent, grade-level comprehension.

 

Leveraging Technology for Engagement
Identify instructional tools and resources, including AI-supported platforms, that support differentiation, provide timely feedback, and help teachers accelerate learning for students below grade level while maintaining high expectations.

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Instructional Impact

Participants will leave with practical resources, instructional tools, and planning supports they can immediately use to help students progress toward and sustain grade-level reading comprehension.

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What to Expect

• Engaging Presentations: Gain insights from expert educators sharing evidence-based strategies for teaching reading comprehension effectively.

•  Collaborative Discussions:  Opportunities to connect with peers, share experiences, and build a supportive network of literacy professionals.

• Classroom-Ready Resources: Leave with actionable lesson ideas, activities, and templates that can be implemented immediately.

• Adaptable Strategies: Learn how to tailor comprehension approaches for diverse learners, including English Language Learners and students with varying literacy levels.

• Exclusive Materials: Receive year-long access to a suite of materials to reinforce your learning and support your instructional goals.