Connecticut Foundations of Reading Test (FORT) Practice

Which reading comprehension type focuses on what the author implies?

1. Literal Comprehension

2. Inferential Comprehension

3. Evaluative Comprehension

4. Comprehension Skills

The correct answer is: Inferential Comprehension

Inferential comprehension is the type of reading comprehension that centers on understanding what the author implies rather than what is explicitly stated. This involves readers making inferences based on clues provided within the text, context, and their own background knowledge. For instance, if a character is described as shivering and wearing a light jacket, the reader infers that it is likely cold outside, even if the author does not directly state the temperature. This comprehension skill is crucial for fully grasping the nuances of a text and understanding deeper meanings. It encourages critical thinking and the ability to connect ideas, which goes beyond mere recall of information or literal interpretation. Inferential comprehension is foundational for higher-level reading skills and helps students draw conclusions and understand the implicit messages and themes in a story. Other types of comprehension, such as literal comprehension, focus on the direct and explicit meaning of the text, while evaluative comprehension requires making judgments about the text. Comprehension skills encompass a broader array of techniques and strategies for understanding texts as a whole.