Connecticut Foundations of Reading Test (FORT) Practice

Which of the following strategies is NOT typically used for text comprehension?

1. Story structure analysis

2. Multisyllable word identification

3. Constructing mental images

4. Asking questions

The correct answer is: Multisyllable word identification

The chosen answer, which identifies multisyllable word identification as a strategy not typically used for text comprehension, is indeed accurate. Here's a deeper insight into why this is the case: Multisyllable word identification primarily involves the phonetic and structural analysis of words, focusing on breaking down complex words into manageable parts for pronunciation and spelling purposes. While this skill is essential for developing reading fluency, it does not directly contribute to comprehension, which is the ability to understand and interpret what is being read. In contrast, strategies like story structure analysis, constructing mental images, and asking questions are all deeply intertwined with enhancing comprehension. Story structure analysis helps readers understand the framework of a narrative, including elements like characters, setting, and plot, facilitating better overall understanding. Constructing mental images allows readers to visualize content, making it more relatable and easier to grasp. Asking questions encourages active engagement with the text, prompting readers to think critically about the material and seek deeper meanings. Thus, while knowledge of multisyllable words supports the overall reading process, it does not directly influence a reader's ability to comprehend the text, distinguishing it from the other strategies mentioned.