Connecticut Foundations Of Reading Test (FORT) Practice

Context plays a critical role in word comprehension as it serves as a framework from which readers can derive meaning. When encountering unfamiliar words, the surrounding text can offer various clues—such as synonyms, antonyms, explanations, or examples—that help readers infer the meaning of those words. This inferential process allows readers to make educated guesses about unfamiliar vocabulary, enhancing their understanding without needing to memorize definitions. Moreover, context not only aids in decoding individual words but also supports overall comprehension of sentences and passages, as it helps clarify how specific words are used within particular phrases or themes. By bringing together both language skills and contextual clues, readers can create a richer understanding of the text.