What is the purpose of an anticipatory guide?

An anticipatory guide is a tool designed specifically to activate students' prior knowledge and set a purpose for reading before they engage with a text. By presenting statements or questions related to the content of the upcoming reading, it encourages students to think about what they already know and what they expect to learn. This process helps students to make connections between their existing knowledge and new information, enhancing comprehension and engagement during and after reading.

Through the use of anticipatory guides, educators can also stimulate interest and provoke thought, making the reading experience more meaningful. As students interact with the guide, they reflect on their viewpoints, which prepares them mentally for the new material they are about to encounter. This strategy effectively supports a deeper understanding of the text, making it a valuable practice in teaching reading comprehension.