Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

Which characteristic should texts for emergent readers NOT have?

1. Complex sentence structures

2. High-frequency words

3. Illustrations that support print

4. Limited amount of text per page

The correct answer is: Complex sentence structures

The characteristic that texts for emergent readers should not have is complex sentence structures. Emergent readers are typically at the beginning stages of their reading development, and they benefit from texts that feature simple, clear, and straightforward language. Complex sentence structures can be confusing and overwhelming for these readers, hindering their comprehension and ability to decode the text. In contrast, texts that include high-frequency words, illustrations that support print, and a limited amount of text per page are essential components for emergent readers. High-frequency words help build their sight word vocabulary, allowing them to read more fluently. Illustrations provide visual context that aids understanding and engagement, while a limited amount of text on each page helps prevent frustration and allows for a focused reading experience. These elements work together to create an effective and supportive learning environment for young readers as they begin to develop their literacy skills.