What is a key feature of engaging students in think-aloud reading?

Engaging students in think-aloud reading is primarily focused on making their cognitive processes visible to themselves and their peers. This practice encourages them to articulate their thoughts as they read, which significantly enhances their comprehension and critical thinking skills. By reflecting on their predictions, students are prompted to consider the text more deeply, analyze their understanding, and connect new information with their existing knowledge. This reflective practice helps to develop metacognitive skills, enabling students to become more aware of their reading strategies and thought processes, ultimately improving their reading proficiency and engagement with the text.