What role does vocabulary instruction play in reading comprehension?

Vocabulary instruction plays a critical role in reading comprehension because it directly enhances students' understanding of texts and improves their overall literacy skills. When students have a strong vocabulary, they can decode words more fluently and grasp the meaning of what they are reading. This understanding is essential for making connections between ideas, summarizing content, and engaging in deeper analysis of texts.

A well-developed vocabulary allows students to read more complex texts with greater ease, which encourages them to engage with a wider range of literature and subjects. Consequently, effective vocabulary instruction is fundamental in facilitating a child's ability to comprehend material across various contexts, fostering not only reading skills but also their ability to communicate and express ideas. By investing time in vocabulary development, educators help students build a foundation that supports academic success in all areas of learning.