Connecticut Foundations of Reading Test (FORT) Practice 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

Background knowledge plays a crucial role in reading comprehension as it serves as a framework that enables readers to make connections and better understand new information presented in the text. When readers encounter new material, their existing knowledge allows them to relate the new content to what they already know, facilitating deeper engagement and interpretation. This connection aids in recalling relevant concepts, inferring meanings, and integrating new insights into their existing mental models.

For instance, if a reader is familiar with historical events, they can comprehend and analyze a historical fiction text more effectively, grasping implicit themes and character motivations that rely on that context. Without adequate background knowledge, readers might struggle to understand the nuances of the text, miss key themes, or find it challenging to engage with complex ideas. Thus, background knowledge is not merely helpful but essential for enhancing comprehension and providing a meaningful reading experience.