What is the goal of comprehension monitoring in reading?

The goal of comprehension monitoring in reading is to utilize strategies when understanding is blocked. This involves a reader being aware of their understanding as they read and recognizing when comprehension breaks down. By identifying moments of confusion or lack of understanding, readers can then implement specific strategies to restore comprehension, such as rereading, questioning, or summarizing. This self-regulatory aspect of reading helps develop critical thinking skills and promotes a deeper engagement with the text.

In developing reading comprehension, monitoring serves as an active approach rather than passive learning. For instance, if a reader encounters a challenging passage, they can pause to reflect on their understanding and apply techniques to overcome that challenge.

Other options, while related to reading, do not capture the essential purpose of comprehension monitoring. For example, improving vocabulary knowledge, tracking interest in a text, or memorizing key passages do not directly address the need for self-awareness and strategy deployment in situations where understanding falters.