Connecticut Foundations of Reading Test (FORT) Practice

How does a reader effectively monitor their comprehension?

1. By skimming the text

2. By summarizing after reading

3. By re-reading sections

4. By identifying key vocabulary

The correct answer is: By summarizing after reading

Summarizing after reading is an effective way for a reader to monitor comprehension because it requires the reader to reflect on the material and distill the main ideas and details into their own words. This process not only reinforces understanding but also helps identify any gaps in comprehension. When readers summarize, they become actively engaged with the text, allowing them to check if they have grasped the vital concepts and content. For instance, if a reader can successfully summarize a passage, it indicates that they have processed the information and understood the primary arguments or narrative structures presented in the text. If they struggle to summarize, it serves as a signal that they may need to revisit certain parts of the reading or clarify their understanding. In contrast, strategies such as skimming the text may enable readers to get a general idea of the content but do not provide a true measure of comprehension. Re-reading can help solidify understanding if sections are challenging, while identifying key vocabulary is crucial for building understanding but does not directly measure the overall grasp of the material as effectively as summarizing does.