What is the primary benefit of using think-aloud strategies while reading?

Using think-aloud strategies while reading primarily benefits students by helping them monitor their comprehension. This technique involves verbalizing thoughts as they occur during the reading process, which allows readers to articulate their understanding, confusion, and connections to the text. By expressing their thinking, students can assess whether they grasp the material and identify any areas where they may need further clarification or support. This self-awareness is crucial for developing effective reading strategies and for fostering deeper engagement with the text.

While vocabulary development, memory recall, and silent reading are important components of literacy instruction, they are not the primary focus of think-aloud strategies. The main goal is to create a dialogue about the reading process, facilitating a greater understanding of the material and promoting metacognitive skills. Through monitoring their comprehension, students learn how to be more active and reflective readers, ultimately improving their overall reading proficiency.