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This paper explores the heuristics that relate to the improved reading outcomes of EAL/D (English as an Additional Language or Dialect) high school students for the critical engagement with texts. A case will be made for teacher-led action research as a powerful professional development tool. In addition to subscribing to mandatory codes of NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) syllabus guidelines and learning outcomes, this longitudinal study reflects aspects of Bakhtin's (translated 1982) concept of 'dialogism' which is integral for learning and teaching processes. Utilising linguistic social theories of learning, this longitudinal case study explores the interrelated aspects of student peer and teacher relationships, learning styles, reading performance indicators and reading strategies over three years. Relevant for all teachers in mixed ability and multicultural classrooms, this study encourages us to become more intentional about expanding our understanding of the reading process and how this can lead to opportunities and ideas about classroom practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehension is generally considered to be an essential skill required in all learning areas. The Australian Curriculum argues that much of the explicit teaching of literacy occurs in the English learning area, and is strengthened, made specific and extended in other learning areas as students engage in a range of learning activities with significant literacy demands (ACARA, 2012, p. 9). This has important ramifications for all teachers because they are charged with the responsibility of ensuring their students acquire the literacy skills necessary for success in the discipline areas. Despite this, comprehension means different things to different people. This paper reports on an action research project investigating teacher and student understandings of comprehension in the middle school years Specifically it asks the question: What counts as comprehension in teacher practice? After considering teacher and student perceptions of what comprehension is in different subject areas in Years 5, 7 and 9, strategic professional development seminars have been developed and implemented. These seminars are aimed at introducing teachers to current ideas about comprehension and providing them with practical, achievable strategies to use in the classroom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]