Barnacles and Whales/Lapas y Ballenas: Integrating STEM Concepts in Reading Comprehension while Fostering Heritage Language

This article describes a pedagogical approach for enhancing reading comprehension that was employed in a Spanish heritage after-school program with third to fifth graders. This approach is based on the three components that are key to reading comprehension: visual cues, vocabulary, and oral language practice. Every week, teachers introduce STEM concepts through a read aloud of a different Spanish book. Throughout the week, students complete various STEM related activities based on the book and which utilize the key components of reading comprehension.