What role does vocabulary play in reading comprehension?

A rich vocabulary enhances understanding of texts because it provides readers with the tools they need to make sense of what they are reading. When readers encounter unfamiliar words, having a strong vocabulary allows them to derive meaning from context or recall the definitions of those words, facilitating a deeper understanding of the text. This connection between vocabulary knowledge and reading comprehension is well established in literacy research, indicating that students who have a robust vocabulary are better equipped to engage with and interpret complex texts. Moreover, a broad vocabulary enables readers to make inferences, recognize themes, and appreciate nuances in language, all of which are crucial components of effective reading comprehension. In contrast, appreciating the value of vocabulary doesn’t support the ideas presented in the other choices, which suggest limitations or misconceptions about vocabulary’s role in literacy development.