What role does background knowledge play in reading comprehension?

Background knowledge plays a crucial role in reading comprehension by contributing to a more holistic interpretation of the content. When readers have relevant background knowledge about a subject, they are better able to make connections between what they already know and the new information presented in the text. This facilitates deeper understanding and retention of the material, as readers can integrate new concepts with existing cognitive frameworks.

For example, if a reader is familiar with historical events discussed in a text, they can more easily grasp references or themes that align with that background knowledge. This enables them to interpret nuances, infer meanings, and critically analyze the information presented, leading to a richer and more thorough comprehension of the reading material.