Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) Practice Test

When underlining unfamiliar words in a sentence, what should the teacher primarily focus on?

1. The aesthetic qualities of the text

2. The readability of the sentence as a whole

3. The target prefix, suffix, or root word

4. The punctuation used in the sentence

The correct answer is: The target prefix, suffix, or root word

When a teacher focuses on underlining unfamiliar words in a sentence, concentrating on the target prefix, suffix, or root word is essential because this approach directly aids students in understanding vocabulary. By identifying the morphological components of a word, students can break down complex words into more manageable parts, enhancing their ability to deduce meanings. This practice empowers students to expand their vocabulary and develop linguistic skills, which are critical for reading comprehension. Understanding the prefixes, suffixes, and root words equips learners with strategies to tackle unknown vocabulary independently. This focus also fosters a deeper engagement with the text, as students can recognize patterns in word formation and meanings, leading to more accurate contextual understanding.