Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) Practice Test

What is a common strategy for supporting struggling readers?

1. Enrich vocabulary knowledge through reading

2. Assess reading fluency every week

3. Teach in manageable units

4. Encourage peer reading only

The correct answer is: Teach in manageable units

Teaching in manageable units is an effective strategy for supporting struggling readers because it breaks down the reading material into smaller, more digestible segments. This allows students to focus on one concept or skill at a time, which can reduce overwhelm and increase their chances of comprehension. By presenting information in manageable units, educators can provide targeted support and allow students to gradually build their confidence and skills. Additionally, this approach makes it easier for teachers to assess understanding and provide immediate feedback, which is crucial for helping struggling readers catch up. The other options, while they may contain elements that are beneficial in a broader context, do not address the specific need for breaking down content for struggling readers as effectively as teaching in manageable units does. For example, enriching vocabulary knowledge can be helpful, but without ensuring that students can digest and understand the material in segments, it may not lead to improved comprehension. Assessing reading fluency weekly is informative, but it doesn’t directly support struggling readers in their immediate learning process. Encouraging peer reading can foster collaboration and motivation, but it might not provide the structured support that struggling readers need to improve their skills effectively.