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Theory Synthesis
Theory Synthesis
By Weiyan Xia
Schema Theory
Schema Theory is one of the Constructivist theories. It is a theory that strives to explain the
mechanism of the creation and utilization of knowledge by readers. According to schema theory,
people organize knowledge they acquired into schemata, or build up knowledge structure.
Schema Theory has two significant characteristics:
I.
Everyones Schemata are individualized, and the differences in existing schemata greatly
influence learning. Schema Theory suggests that the more elaborated an individuals schema
for any topic, the more easily he or she will be able to learn new information in that topic area;
II.
Engagement Theory
Engagement Theory suggests that engaged readers are those who intrinsically motivated to
read and who therefore read frequently. According to Engagement Theory, engaged readers are
mentally active, building their understanding of the conceptual content of texts through the
application of metacognitive strategies; and frequently social, often communicate with others
about their reading and learning. Thus Engagement Theory consists of the central elements of
Metacognitive Theory, and also focuses on motivational, conceptual, and social aspects of
learning.
Based on Engagement Theory, Guthrie (2007) created Concept-Oriented Reading Instruction
(CORI). It has five major components: (1) the use of themes in reading instruction, (2) an
emphasis on student choice for both reading texts and responses, (3) the use of hands-on
activities, (4) the availability of a wide variety of text genres chosen to interest students, and (5)
the integration of social collaboration into reading response activities.
Synthesis
Schema Theory, Psycholinguistic Theory and Engagement Theory suggest the active
involvement of students in the process of reading and learning, and the significance of prior
knowledge related to the reading topic. Teachers should apply instructional strategies which
includes the following characteristics:
1. Texts should be authentic and relevant to students experience to inspire students interests;
students should have choices on the selection of texts in a wide range of genres;
2. Prior knowledge should be triggered to prepare students for new texts, new concepts, and new
knowledge, including vocabulary, background information, grammar and syntax, purpose,
reading strategies, KWL, etc.
3. Reading strategies should be explained explicitly, modeled and practiced repeatedly. Teachers
can use Think-Aloud strategy to present the mind process to help student comprehend and
master the strategies.
4. Hands-on activities should be used in classroom to engagement students. Teachers can
organize students working on interactive activities, such as group discussion, various reader
responses, etc.