Connecticut Foundations of Reading Test (FORT) Practice

Which term describes the connection between vocabulary and comprehension skills?

1. Vocabulary development

2. Schema alignment

3. Comprehension enhancement

4. Reading fluency

The correct answer is: Schema alignment

The connection between vocabulary and comprehension skills is best described by "schema alignment." This term refers to the mental structures and prior knowledge that readers draw upon to understand and interpret new information. A robust vocabulary allows readers to access their schemas more effectively, leading to better comprehension. When readers encounter new words or concepts, they relate them to what they already know, enhancing their ability to understand the text. In contrast, vocabulary development refers specifically to the acquisition of new words and their meanings, while comprehension enhancement focuses on improving overall understanding of a text. Reading fluency relates to the speed and accuracy of reading but does not specifically address the relationship between vocabulary knowledge and comprehension. Schema alignment emphasizes the role of existing knowledge in making sense of new information, highlighting how vocabulary plays a crucial role in the overall process of comprehension.