New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

What best describes making predictions in reading?

1. Using memorization to retain facts

2. Guessing the plot based solely on titles

3. Utilizing prior knowledge to infer what may happen next

4. Reading without critical thinking skills

The correct answer is: Utilizing prior knowledge to infer what may happen next

Making predictions in reading involves utilizing prior knowledge and experiences to infer what may happen next in a text. This process enhances comprehension by engaging the reader's cognitive skills, as they draw on their understanding of narrative structures, character development, and thematic elements. When readers make predictions, they actively participate in the construction of meaning, which in turn motivates them to pay closer attention to the text for confirmation or adjustment of their inferences as they progress. In contrast, relying on memorization to retain facts does not encourage engagement with the text on a deeper level and may hinder the ability to connect ideas and concepts. Guessing the plot based solely on titles lacks the depth of understanding needed for accurate predictions, as it doesn’t take into account the context provided within the content itself. Reading without critical thinking skills undermines the entire process of making predictions, as the lack of analysis and reflection prevents readers from creating informed guesses about what may occur later in the narrative. Therefore, utilizing prior knowledge to infer is the most effective approach to making predictions while reading.