How does the K-W-L strategy enhance comprehension?

The K-W-L strategy enhances comprehension primarily by testing prior knowledge. This instructional approach involves three steps: "What I Know" (K), "What I Want to Know" (W), and "What I Learned" (L). In the first step, students activate their existing knowledge about a topic, which establishes a foundation for new learning. By identifying what they already know, students can connect new information to their personal experiences and understandings, leading to a more meaningful learning experience. This activation of prior knowledge is crucial for comprehension, as it helps learners create mental frameworks that support the retention and integration of new information.

While vocabulary, fact and inference integration, and group discussions are all important in the context of learning and comprehension, the foundational aspect of the K-W-L strategy is its focus on linking new content to what students already know. This connection serves as a building block for deeper understanding and retention, making prior knowledge a vital component of effective comprehension strategies.