How is comprehension defined in the context of structured literacy?

In the context of structured literacy, comprehension is defined as the ability to comprehend and interpret meanings from text. This definition encompasses a wide range of cognitive processes, including making connections, inferring information, summarizing content, and evaluating the text. Effective comprehension involves not only decoding the words but also engaging with the text to understand the concepts and themes being communicated.

This broad understanding of comprehension acknowledges that reading is not just about recognizing words but also about grasping the underlying messages and interpretations that can be derived from the text. It emphasizes the need for readers to actively construct meaning through interaction with the written material, which is a foundational aspect of effective literacy instruction.