New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

According to Marie Clay's Literacy Processing Theory, how do children approach learning to read?

1. With identical background knowledge

2. With varying background knowledge and experiences

3. Only through structured teaching

4. By mimicking others' reading styles

The correct answer is: With varying background knowledge and experiences

According to Marie Clay's Literacy Processing Theory, children approach learning to read with varying background knowledge and experiences. This understanding acknowledges that each child comes to the reading process with their unique set of experiences, cultural contexts, and previous knowledge. These individual differences significantly influence how they interpret and engage with text, affecting their reading development and comprehension. Marie Clay emphasized the importance of recognizing that children are not blank slates; rather, they have prior knowledge that shapes their reading capabilities. By considering the diverse backgrounds of learners, educators can tailor their instruction to support each child's specific needs and leverage their existing knowledge. This approach promotes a more effective and meaningful learning experience, as it encourages children to make connections between what they already know and new information they encounter through reading.