Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

How do collaborative learning opportunities benefit students?

1. Allow them to watch the teacher solve problems

2. Enable them to copy answers from peers

3. Help them apply higher-level reading and writing skills

4. Limit the amount of individual accountability

The correct answer is: Help them apply higher-level reading and writing skills

The correct answer highlights how collaborative learning opportunities support students in developing and applying higher-level reading and writing skills. When students work together, they engage in discussions, share diverse perspectives, and tackle complex tasks that require critical thinking and problem-solving. This collaborative environment fosters deeper understanding and encourages the use of advanced cognitive processes, such as analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. Through collaboration, students are often prompted to articulate their thoughts more clearly and respond thoughtfully to their peers, which enhances their communication skills. Engaging with a variety of viewpoints also broadens their comprehension and allows them to make connections that support their learning. In contrast, the other options imply less effective learning practices. Watching a teacher solve problems does not actively involve students in the learning process. Copying answers from peers undermines the independent thinking that is vital for mastering concepts. Lastly, limiting individual accountability can detract from personal responsibility in learning, which is essential for developing a strong understanding of material.