New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

Which of the following best supports the understanding of setting and characters?

1. Memory recall exercises

2. Identifying key quotes

3. Using graphic organizers

4. Writing summaries

The correct answer is: Using graphic organizers

Using graphic organizers is an effective strategy for supporting the understanding of setting and characters in literature. Graphic organizers visually represent information and relationships, making it easier for students to analyze and synthesize elements of a story. By creating charts, maps, or diagrams, students can clearly outline aspects of the setting, such as time, place, and mood, alongside character traits, motivations, and relationships. This visual approach helps learners to see connections and patterns that might not be as apparent through text alone, thus enhancing comprehension. For instance, a Venn diagram can show similarities and differences between characters, while a story map can break down the setting in relation to character development and plot progression. This structure encourages deeper engagement with the text and reinforces critical thinking skills as students draw conclusions based on the visual representations of their insights.