TEXES Science of Teaching Reading Practice Test

What should a teacher's best initial response be when a third-grade English learner exhibits difficulty with a text?

1. Provide a list of probing questions to answer after reading

2. Informally assess the student's background knowledge about the topic

3. Advise the student to read more slowly for comprehension

4. Encourage a written summary of key events while reading

The correct answer is: Informally assess the student's background knowledge about the topic

Informally assessing the student's background knowledge about the topic is vital as it helps the teacher understand the student's prior experiences and familiarity with the content. This initial response allows the educator to gauge what the student may already know and where they might be struggling. For English learners in particular, connecting new information to prior knowledge is crucial for comprehension, as it provides a foundation upon which they can build. By assessing background knowledge, the teacher can tailor their instruction more effectively, ensuring that any subsequent strategies or supports address the specific gaps in understanding. This approach not only helps the student access the text meaningfully but also builds their confidence as they recognize connections to their existing knowledge, thus enhancing their overall learning experience. Other responses, such as providing probing questions or suggesting that the student read more slowly, may assist in comprehension but may not directly address the root cause of the difficulty. Similarly, while summarizing key events is a valuable strategy, it assumes a level of understanding that the student might not yet possess without first engaging with their existing knowledge. Therefore, exploring what the student already knows is the most strategic first step in supporting their learning.