TEXES Science of Teaching Reading Practice Test

How can a teacher assess if students are proficient in reading comprehension?

1. By testing decoding skills

2. By reviewing phonetic sound recognition

3. By conducting thematic discussions

4. By assigning vocabulary quizzes

The correct answer is: By conducting thematic discussions

A teacher can assess students' proficiency in reading comprehension effectively through thematic discussions because this method encourages students to engage deeply with the text. Thematic discussions allow students to express their understanding of the material, analyze themes, and connect ideas within and across texts. This interactive approach provides insights into how well students can interpret, infer, and evaluate narratives, arguments, or informational texts, which are key components of comprehension. In contrast, testing decoding skills, reviewing phonetic sound recognition, or assigning vocabulary quizzes primarily focus on foundational reading skills and vocabulary knowledge rather than the comprehensive understanding of a text's meaning. While these components are crucial for developing reading proficiency, they do not directly assess a student's ability to understand and analyze what they read, which is the heart of reading comprehension. Thematic discussions support higher-order thinking and allow teachers to gauge students' interpretive skills, making it the most effective choice for assessing reading comprehension proficiency.