What is the role of vocabulary development in reading?

Vocabulary development plays a crucial role in reading because it directly influences a reader’s ability to understand and engage with the text. When a reader has a robust vocabulary, they are better equipped to decode the meanings of words in context, which enhances comprehension. This means that as students encounter new texts, their existing vocabulary helps them make sense of the content, thereby improving their overall reading ability.

Additionally, a strong vocabulary not only aids in comprehension but also facilitates critical thinking and analysis of material, allowing readers to draw connections between ideas and concepts. In summary, vocabulary development is integral to reading as it empowers readers to grasp more complex ideas, engage fully with different types of texts, and achieve greater academic success.