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

Which of the following is NOT a comprehension strategy?

1. Asking questions about the text

2. Summarizing parts of the text

3. Clarifying unknown words and sentences

4. Memorizing text word-for-word

The correct answer is: Memorizing text word-for-word

Memorizing text word-for-word does not constitute a comprehension strategy. Comprehension strategies are techniques that help readers understand and interpret what they are reading, going beyond the mere recognition or recall of words. They involve engagement with the text that enhances understanding, retention, and the ability to analyze information. The first three choices—asking questions about the text, summarizing parts of the text, and clarifying unknown words and sentences—are all strategies that actively involve the reader in the cognitive process of understanding. Asking questions encourages critical thinking and deeper exploration of the content. Summarizing helps to distill information into essential points, aiding retention and understanding. Clarifying unknown words and sentences allows readers to decode and grasp the meanings necessary for understanding the entirety of the text. Together, these strategies promote a more thorough engagement with the material, which is essential for effective reading comprehension. In contrast, memorization focuses solely on rote learning without fostering an understanding of the content.