What does "reading comprehension" involve?

Reading comprehension involves the ability to understand and interpret the meaning of a text. This includes grasping the context, which encompasses themes, characters, setting, and the author's intent. When a reader comprehends a text, they can synthesize the information, make connections to prior knowledge, and draw inferences. This understanding enables them to engage critically with the text and reflect on what they have read, making it possible to answer questions, discuss ideas, and apply the knowledge gained. Other activities, such as memorizing vocabulary lists, reciting texts from memory, or writing essays, do not focus on the deep understanding of the material but rather on rote learning or expression of thoughts without necessarily engaging with the text's comprehension. Therefore, the essence of reading comprehension lies specifically in understanding the context of a text.