What is an essential aspect of the comprehension process?

Making connections between the text and prior knowledge is a crucial aspect of the comprehension process. This strategy, often referred to as making connections or text-to-self, text-to-text, and text-to-world connections, enhances understanding by allowing readers to relate new information to what they already know. By invoking their background knowledge, readers can better interpret the meaning of the text, draw inferences, and engage with the material on a deeper level. This active engagement not only aids in retention but also fosters critical thinking skills, making comprehension more effective and meaningful.

In contrast, quickly decoding words without understanding does not contribute to comprehension as it focuses solely on the mechanical aspect of reading. Reading only the first and last paragraphs of a text limits engagement and prevents a full grasp of the content, context, and nuances presented in the body of the text. Relying solely on illustrations may provide some visual context, but it does not encompass the totality of the narrative or argument being conveyed, thereby hindering a comprehensive understanding of the material.