What are the best technology tools for critical reading in the classroom?

1 Pre-reading tools

Before diving into a text, students need to activate their prior knowledge, set a purpose for reading, and make predictions. Technology tools can help teachers create interactive pre-reading activities that spark curiosity and motivation. For example, teachers can use online platforms like Padlet or Jamboard to create digital boards where students can post questions, images, or videos related to the topic. Teachers can also use tools like Flipgrid or Nearpod to record short videos or audio clips that introduce the text and prompt students to share their expectations or opinions.

2 During-reading tools

While reading a text, students need to monitor their comprehension, use strategies to overcome difficulties, and annotate their thoughts and reactions. Technology tools can help teachers scaffold and differentiate their during-reading instruction and feedback. For example, teachers can use tools like Google Docs or Kami to create editable versions of the text that allow students to highlight, comment, or insert notes. Teachers can also use tools like Read&Write or Immersive Reader to provide text-to-speech, translation, or vocabulary support for struggling readers.

3 Post-reading tools

After reading a text, students need to summarize, synthesize, and evaluate what they have learned. Technology tools can help teachers design creative post-reading projects that require students to apply their critical thinking and communication skills. For example, teachers can use tools like Book Creator or Adobe Spark to create digital books or multimedia presentations that showcase students' understanding and analysis of the text. Teachers can also use tools like Kahoot or Quizizz to create fun quizzes or games that assess students' recall and inference skills.

4 Collaborative reading tools

Critical reading is not only an individual skill, but also a social one. Students can benefit from interacting with their peers and teachers to discuss, debate, and compare their perspectives on a text. Technology tools can help teachers facilitate collaborative reading activities that foster a community of readers. For example, teachers can use tools like Google Classroom or Seesaw to create online spaces where students can post their work, comment on each other's posts, and give and receive feedback. Teachers can also use tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams to host live video sessions where students can engage in synchronous discussions or presentations.

5 Adaptive reading tools

Critical reading is not a one-size-fits-all skill. Students have different reading levels, interests, and goals. Technology tools can help teachers personalize their critical reading instruction and meet the diverse needs of their students. For example, teachers can use tools like Newsela or CommonLit to access a variety of texts that are aligned to the standards and adapted to different reading levels. Teachers can also use tools like Lexia or Achieve3000 to provide individualized reading practice and intervention that target students' specific skills and gaps.

6 Reflective reading tools

Critical reading is not only a cognitive skill, but also a metacognitive one. Students need to reflect on their own reading process, strengths, and challenges. Technology tools can help teachers promote reflective reading practices that enhance students' self-awareness and growth. For example, teachers can use tools like Google Forms or SurveyMonkey to create surveys or self-assessments that ask students to rate their confidence, effort, or progress. Teachers can also use tools like Seesaw or Flipgrid to invite students to record audio or video reflections that share their insights, questions, or goals.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?