What is a key component in improving language comprehension skills?

Using context clues from stories and discussions is essential for improving language comprehension skills because it enables individuals to infer meaning and grasp the overall message without relying solely on explicit definitions. Context clues help learners to make connections between new information and their existing knowledge, facilitating deeper understanding. When students encounter unfamiliar words or concepts within a narrative or dialogue, they can utilize surrounding words or phrases, as well as the overall theme of the material, to derive meaning and enhance their comprehension.

This approach encourages critical thinking and active engagement with the text, allowing learners to develop strategies to decode and interpret language in various contexts, which ultimately leads to better overall comprehension skills. It promotes a more holistic understanding of language as it is used in real situations, rather than the disjointed learning that can occur with a singular focus on vocabulary or memorization tactics. This method also supports the inclusion of richer, more meaningful content in language sessions, which is vital for comprehensive skill development.