Which of the following is identified as a primary goal of reading?

• A. Accelerating fluency
• B. Building vocabulary
• C. Improving spelling skills
• D. Reading comprehension

Answer: (D)

Reading comprehension is identified as a primary goal of reading because it involves understanding and interpreting the meaning of text. It is a foundational skill that enables readers to engage with material critically and meaningfully. Comprehension goes beyond just being able to decode words; it requires the ability to connect ideas, draw inferences, and relate information to prior knowledge. When students comprehend what they read, they can apply that knowledge, think critically about content, and enjoy literature.

While accelerating fluency, building vocabulary, and improving spelling skills are important aspects of reading development, they serve primarily as supportive skills that contribute to effective comprehension. For example, fluency allows readers to focus more on meaning rather than decoding individual words. A rich vocabulary enhances the understanding of text, and strong spelling skills can aid in writing and literacy overall. However, the ultimate aim remains the ability to understand and interpret text, making reading comprehension the primary goal in the context of literacy education.