Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

How does culture impact reading comprehension?

1. Culture has no significant impact on reading comprehension

2. Familiar cultural topics help readers to make predictions, inferences, and conclusions better

3. Readers from different cultures comprehend texts at the same level

4. Readers require translations to understand texts from other cultures

The correct answer is: Familiar cultural topics help readers to make predictions, inferences, and conclusions better

Familiar cultural topics play a crucial role in enhancing reading comprehension by enabling readers to connect with the text on a deeper level. When readers encounter themes, references, or scenarios within a text that align with their own cultural background, they are more likely to draw upon their prior knowledge and experiences. This familiarity allows them to make predictions about the content, infer meanings that may not be explicitly stated, and draw conclusions more effectively. Cultural context can shape how individuals interpret language, idioms, and even the structure of narratives. When a reader understands the underlying cultural references, they can engage with the text more fully and critically. This engagement leads to stronger comprehension skills as they relate personally to the material, making it easier to recall details and understand complex themes. In contrast, the other choices overlook this connection. For instance, claiming that culture has no significant impact ignores the vast research supporting the relationship between cultural awareness and comprehension. The idea that all readers comprehend texts at the same level fails to recognize the influence of cultural context on understanding. Lastly, suggesting that readers require translations implies that comprehension issues are solely about language differences rather than the broader context in which a text is situated.