What effect does prior knowledge have on comprehension?

Prior knowledge plays a significant role in comprehension by enhancing the ability to understand and integrate new information. When readers have background knowledge related to the subject matter, they can make connections to what they already know, which facilitates better understanding and retention of new concepts. This existing knowledge acts as a framework that helps them interpret and analyze the text more effectively.

For instance, a reader familiar with a particular historical event will have an easier time grasping the nuances of a text that discusses that event compared to a reader who has no prior awareness. This contextual understanding allows readers to fill in gaps, make inferences, and draw conclusions, ultimately leading to a deeper comprehension of the material.

In contrast, the options suggesting that prior knowledge slows down reading or disrupts comprehension overlook the cognitive benefits that background information provides. Additionally, asserting that prior knowledge is irrelevant dismisses its crucial influence on how information is processed and understood. Overall, integrating prior knowledge enhances the reading experience by enabling a richer, more informed engagement with the text.