Which statement best describes the effects of monitoring reading goals?

Monitoring reading goals plays a crucial role in enhancing students' motivation and engagement. When students are aware of their reading targets and can track their progress, they are more likely to take ownership of their learning. This process fosters a sense of accomplishment as they achieve these goals, thereby increasing their intrinsic motivation to read. Additionally, seeing improvement over time can boost their confidence in their reading abilities, creating a positive feedback loop that encourages further effort and participation.

In contrast to this, other statements suggest negative outcomes, which do not accurately capture the impact of goal monitoring. For example, the idea that it has minimal impact undermines the research supporting goal-setting as a motivational strategy. Similarly, suggesting that it frequently leads to lower reading skills contradicts evidence showing that goal monitoring can help students focus on relevant skills and strategies that enhance their reading abilities. Lastly, the notion that it creates anxiety among students fails to consider how well-structured goals, paired with appropriate support, can actually provide a clear pathway for achievement, thus reducing feelings of overwhelm rather than causing them.