What is a key benefit of activating prior knowledge before reading a new text?

Activating prior knowledge before engaging with a new text is a crucial strategy in reading instruction because it enhances comprehension by allowing readers to connect new information to what they already know. When readers can draw upon their previous experiences, understandings, and knowledge, they create a framework that allows them to interpret and integrate new concepts more effectively. This connection not only makes the material more relatable but also helps in retaining the information over time, facilitating deeper understanding of the text.

For example, if a student has background knowledge about the ocean, they will likely grasp a text about marine life more readily than if they approached it without any context. This strategy also encourages readers to make predictions and set purposes for reading, which further aids in comprehension.

The other options do not accurately represent the benefits of activating prior knowledge. Reducing the need for vocabulary instruction overlooks the fact that some vocabulary is still essential for understanding, while guessing content without context can lead to misunderstandings and confuse readers more than it aids them. Limiting vocabulary use contradicts the idea that expanding vocabulary is essential to reading comprehension and fluency. Thus, activating prior knowledge serves as a supportive foundation for engaging with new texts.