TEXES Science of Teaching Reading Practice Test

What is a characteristic of cooperative learning in the context of reading comprehension?

1. It allows students to work independently

2. It typically leads to lower student engagement

3. It facilitates discussion and deeper understanding

4. It limits opportunities for peer-to-peer interaction

The correct answer is: It facilitates discussion and deeper understanding

In the context of reading comprehension, cooperative learning emphasizes collaboration among students, which is crucial for fostering deeper understanding. This approach encourages learners to discuss texts together, share diverse perspectives, and clarify concepts with one another, leading to enhanced engagement and retention of material. When students participate in cooperative learning, they actively engage in discussions that allow them to articulate their thoughts and reasoning about the text, ask questions, and build on each other's ideas. This dynamic interaction not only promotes critical thinking but also helps clarify misunderstandings and encourages students to approach reading from different angles. The other options highlight characteristics that are contrary to the essence of cooperative learning. For example, working independently and limiting peer interaction do not align with the communal nature of cooperative learning, which thrives on collaboration and shared learning experiences. Therefore, the focus of cooperative learning is on group discussions and joint comprehension efforts, making the characteristic of facilitating discussion and deeper understanding particularly essential in reading comprehension contexts.