Evaluating the usefulness of Q.A.R.

 Question-Answer Relationship is a reading strategy which was developed by Taffy Raphael (1982). This strategy can be a very effective before, during or after reading strategy, as it encourages students to develop their own internal questioning system as they go through the text. This strategy is an essential reading comprehension strategy as it guides students through the process of understanding what types of questions can or may be asked on a text and how to find or form the answers to these. It helps dispel the misconception that students often have that the answers to all comprehension questions are found in the text; by balancing text information and personal experiences to answer questions on texts. 

Using the strategy effectively, as with any other, depends largely on the user. The following is a guide as to how best to use the Question Answer Relationship Strategy.

1. Explain the strategy
2. Demonstrate the strategy
3. Guide students to apply the strategy
4. Provide opportunities for independent practice
5. Reflect

Some important points to bear in mind when using this strategy are:

1. The zone of proximal development
   Questions are divided into four categories, ranging from simplex to complex. Ensure that students cognitive levels of development are taken into account when using this strategy.
2. Autonomy
   Students should receive guided instruction in the use of this strategy before gradually releasing the to practice on their own. This is imperative as sudden immersion may overwhelm students and make reading a 'chore' or a 'bore', rather then a pleasurable experience.
3. Meta cognition
   Maintaining an internal dialogue whilst reading is an essential comprehension skill.

Question-Answer Relationships is a really great reading strategy. I like it because it teaches comprehension skills. This is a skill which is often overlooked by teachers. It is often misconstrued that comprehension skills are a by-product of literacy. The Q.A.R. Strategy trains readers to determine how information is stated in the text, and how and when inferences are required. It is important when using this strategy to balance the types of questions used.This strategy, once effected properly, should motivate students to read.

Bibliography:

http://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/using-qars-develop-comprehension-232.html

http://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/guided-comprehension-self-questioning-227.html?tab=4#tabs