Educating All Students (EAS) Practice Exam

For establishing a strong learning community around reading, what should a teacher prioritize?

1. Using multimedia resources exclusively

2. Focusing only on classic literature

3. Maintaining a selection of topical and relevant reading materials

4. Emphasizing silent reading without discussion

The correct answer is: Maintaining a selection of topical and relevant reading materials

Prioritizing a selection of topical and relevant reading materials is essential for establishing a strong learning community around reading because it directly engages students' interests and experiences. When students encounter texts that resonate with their lives, they are more likely to feel motivated to read and participate in discussions. Relevant materials can include contemporary issues, diverse voices, and various genres that reflect the students' backgrounds and perspectives. This approach fosters a supportive environment where learners can connect with the content, collaborate with peers, and express their thoughts while making reading a communal and enriching experience. It allows teachers to tailor their curriculum to include voices and stories that might be overlooked in traditional texts, enriching the learning experience and encouraging a love for reading. In contrast, using multimedia resources exclusively might limit the range of perspectives and the depth of literary exploration. Focusing only on classic literature could alienate students who do not relate to those texts, and emphasizing silent reading without discussion may hinder the development of critical thinking and communication skills essential for a supportive learning community. Therefore, maintaining topical and relevant reading materials ensures that the reading community is inclusive, engaging, and dynamic.