What does self-monitoring help students achieve during reading?

Self-monitoring is a critical strategy for fostering improved comprehension in students as they read. It involves the ability to reflect on one's own understanding of the text and make necessary adjustments while reading. This process allows students to identify when they are confused or not fully grasping the information presented. By engaging in self-monitoring, students can pause to reread sections, alter their reading pace, or utilize additional strategies to enhance their understanding of the material.

For example, if a student realizes they have lost track of the main ideas or are struggling to understand a concept, they can take proactive steps to address these comprehension gaps. This reflective practice not only helps them better understand the text at hand but also builds their metacognitive skills, which are essential for independent learning and critical analysis in the future.

In contrast, other options do not align with the benefits of self-monitoring. Increased reading speed does not necessarily equate to better comprehension; in fact, rushing can lead to misunderstandings. Less engagement with the text contradicts the goal of self-monitoring, which aims to enhance interaction with the reading material. Additionally, self-monitoring is designed to reduce frustration by empowering students to take control of their learning process, making frustration a less likely outcome.