New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

What strategy can teachers use to help transitional readers comprehend longer texts?

1. Focus solely on phonics

2. Teach about text structures

3. Restrict the range of genres

4. Encourage only silent reading

The correct answer is: Teach about text structures

Teaching about text structures is an effective strategy for helping transitional readers comprehend longer texts because it equips them with a framework for understanding how various types of texts are organized. Awareness of text structures—such as cause-and-effect relationships, chronological order, problem-solution formats, and compare-contrast formats—enables students to anticipate the flow of information and discern the relationships between ideas within the text. When students are familiar with different text structures, they can better navigate complex material, identify key components, and make connections with prior knowledge. This understanding promotes active reading strategies, such as summarizing, questioning, and predicting, which are all crucial for deeper comprehension of longer and more challenging texts. The other strategies mentioned, such as focusing solely on phonics, restricting genre exposure, or promoting only silent reading, do not adequately address the comprehension challenges that transitional readers face as they encounter longer texts. Engaging with diverse genres or incorporating a mix of reading strategies, including discussion and guided reading, is also essential for developing comprehensive literacy skills.