What is the main function of pre-reading activities?

The main function of pre-reading activities is to activate prior knowledge and prepare for comprehension. Engaging students in discussions or activities before diving into a text helps them connect what they already know with the new material they are about to encounter. This preparation boosts their understanding and retention of the information in the text.

By activating prior knowledge, students can make predictions about the text, relate the material to their own experiences, and set a purpose for their reading. These activities create a conducive learning environment where students feel more empowered and ready to engage with the content, thus enhancing their overall comprehension.

In contrast, testing reading speed or directly assessing reading comprehension does not specifically aim to prepare students for the material they are about to read. Introducing new vocabulary is beneficial but may not necessarily engage students' existing knowledge or contextualize their understanding of the text.