What role does Schema Theory play in reading comprehension?

Schema Theory plays a critical role in reading comprehension by highlighting how readers employ their existing background knowledge to make sense of new information encountered in texts. This theory posits that individuals have mental frameworks, or schemas, that are used to organize and interpret experiences. When readers approach a new text, they activate relevant schemas based on their prior knowledge and experiences, which helps them infer meanings, predict outcomes, and connect new ideas with what they already know.

For instance, when reading a story about a family reunion, a reader may draw upon their own experience of such gatherings, allowing them to better understand the emotions and interactions described. This activation of background knowledge not only aids comprehension but also enhances retention and engagement with the material. Therefore, the interaction between existing schemas and new information facilitates deeper understanding and learning, illustrating the importance of background knowledge in the process of reading comprehension.