New York State Teacher Certification Examinations (NYSTCE) Early Childhood Practice Test

What term refers to the practice of "thinking about thinking" and strategies that help control reading comprehension?

1. Metacognition

2. Critical Thinking

3. Analytical Reasoning

4. Reflective Learning

The correct answer is: Metacognition

Metacognition is the term that refers to the practice of "thinking about thinking." It involves an awareness and understanding of one’s own thought processes, particularly in the context of how one approaches learning and comprehension. In reading comprehension, metacognitive strategies include planning how to approach a task, monitoring understanding during the reading process, and evaluating how well one has comprehended the material afterwards. By employing these strategies, learners can adjust their methods to improve comprehension and retention of information. The term emphasizes the idea that learners can enhance their learning by reflecting on their cognitive processes, making it a crucial component in education, especially for early childhood learners who are developing their foundational skills. Through metacognition, children can learn to identify which strategies work best for them in understanding text, ultimately promoting more effective learning habits.