Which abilities are needed for good reading comprehension?

Which abilities are needed for good reading comprehension?

• A. Decode the words, connect what is read to prior knowledge, think deeply, and know word meanings (vocabulary)
• B. Memorize the text
• C. Only pronounce words correctly
• D. Focus solely on spelling

Answer: (A)

Good reading comprehension comes from combining decoding with active engagement: you decode to recognize the words, you connect what you read to your prior knowledge, you know the meanings of words (vocabulary), and you think deeply about the text—asking questions, making inferences, predicting, and monitoring your understanding as you read. Memorizing the text or only pronouncing words—or focusing solely on spelling—won’t guarantee you understand or can use what you read. The aim is to understand and interpret the message, not just recite it.

Good reading comprehension comes from combining decoding with active engagement: you decode to recognize the words, you connect what you read to your prior knowledge, you know the meanings of words (vocabulary), and you think deeply about the text—asking questions, making inferences, predicting, and monitoring your understanding as you read. Memorizing the text or only pronouncing words—or focusing solely on spelling—won’t guarantee you understand or can use what you read. The aim is to understand and interpret the message, not just recite it.