When working with ELL students, I preview the book before we read it and select vocabulary words that I know the student might struggle with. I add a picture and definition for the word in the vocabulary notebook and we review these before we read so that comprehension is not impeded because of the vocabulary. Also, modeling summarization every few paragraphs or pages (depending on the reading level) can help the student learn how to think about what he or she is reading while reading.

The teacher may want to start by giving the student informational text such as articles, and teach them how to apply close reading strategies. She can also use guided reading to help the student focus on identifying and recalling specific information within the text that the teacher has targeted. These two strategies will address vocabulary and help the student to get a deeper understanding of the text.

I think a good strategy to help with comprehension is starting off a new book, or subject by doing a book walk, or chapter walk. Have the student go through the story or chapter, looking at the pictures or vocabulary words, and have them discuss what they think it may be about before starting the book, chapter or lesson.

In utilizing a word bank and dictionary, you could create an experience that intrinsically motivates the student to use different words that they understand, and have the student pursue different words that they think are "cool".

I would make sure the child has received or is receiving ESOL services to truly help in this area.

Maybe asking the student to recall what the story was about and see if he can recall details such as items in the story.