Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) Practice Test

Which factor is crucial for a student's reading comprehension of a text?

1. Ability to memorize vocabulary lists

2. Strong phonetic awareness

3. Developed background knowledge on the topic

4. Understanding classroom instructions

The correct answer is: Developed background knowledge on the topic

Developed background knowledge on the topic is a crucial factor for a student's reading comprehension of a text because it allows the reader to make connections with the material, making it easier to understand and integrate new information. When students possess relevant background knowledge, they can better predict content, understand context, and relate to the text, which enhances their overall comprehension. Having background knowledge also aids in activating prior knowledge, which helps in organizing and assimilating new information as they read. This prior relevant knowledge acts as a scaffold for understanding complex ideas, vocabulary, and references that may appear in the text. Hence, without this foundational knowledge, students may struggle to grasp key concepts and the nuances of the material, leading to poorer comprehension outcomes. While the ability to memorize vocabulary lists, strong phonetic awareness, and understanding classroom instructions are important components of literacy, they do not individually equate to understanding the meaning and implications of a text in the same way that developed background knowledge does. This knowledge allows readers to navigate and engage with content more effectively, which is why it is so fundamental for comprehension.