What is an anticipation guide designed to do before reading?

An anticipation guide is designed to activate prior knowledge before reading. This tool prompts readers to think about what they already know regarding a specific topic or theme that they will encounter in the text. By asking questions or presenting statements related to the reading material, it encourages readers to make predictions and engage with the content on a deeper level. This process helps to set a purpose for reading and can enhance comprehension, as students relate new information to their own experiences and beliefs, making the reading experience more meaningful and engaging.

In contrast, testing comprehension typically occurs after reading to evaluate understanding, assessing vocabulary focuses specifically on word meanings, and summarizing the text involves condensing and reflecting on the material after it has been read. These functions vary significantly from the main objective of an anticipation guide, which is fundamentally aimed at pre-reading engagement.