NM PED 2026 Literacy and Humanities Summer Conference

Comprehension is often overemphasized as a skill that can be both isolated and taught; however, it is actually the ultimate goal of all reading instruction. To provide effective support, we must change our mindset around what comprehension is, why it is both a skill and an outcome, and how to help students build a true understanding of text.

In this session, Student Achievement Partners will review key research that defines the nature of comprehension and explains why instruction is most effective when centered on complex text. You will explore how to shift your practices to ensure that every student has the necessary support to comprehend any text they encounter. By the end of the session, you will leave with a fresh perspective and a set of research-based strategies to move beyond surface-level skill work toward deep, meaningful literacy achievement for all learners.