Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

Which of the following activities promote reading comprehension?

1. Setting purposes for reading and activating prior knowledge

2. Ignoring unknown words

3. Discouraging questions about the text

4. Encouraging students to read silently without guidance

The correct answer is: Setting purposes for reading and activating prior knowledge

Setting purposes for reading and activating prior knowledge are critical strategies that significantly enhance reading comprehension. When students have a clear purpose for reading, they are more likely to focus on relevant information and engage deeply with the text. Additionally, activating prior knowledge helps students make connections between what they already know and the new information presented in the text, facilitating better understanding and retention. Engaging with the text by asking questions or relating it to previous experiences creates a more interactive reading experience, allowing for clarification of understanding and encouraging critical thinking skills. These strategies work together to create a deeper comprehension of the material, enabling students to grasp complex concepts and appreciate the text fully.