NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

How is a literal item defined in reading comprehension?

1. Information inferred from the reading

2. Information that refers directly back to the content

3. A summary of the reading material

4. Information that requires critical thinking

The correct answer is: Information that refers directly back to the content

The definition of a literal item in reading comprehension pertains to information that refers directly back to the content. In this context, literal comprehension focuses on the direct interpretation of text where the meaning is explicitly stated. For instance, it involves recognizing facts, details, and straightforward statements found in the text, without needing to draw inferences or employ higher-order thinking skills. This type of comprehension is foundational for understanding more complex ideas, as it establishes a clear understanding of the material being read. It emphasizes recognizing and recalling specific information conveyed in the text, making it essential for effective comprehension and analysis. Other choices involve different cognitive processes: inferring information requires readers to read between the lines, summarizing demands an understanding of main ideas and synthesizing content, and critical thinking involves analysis and evaluation beyond what is explicitly stated in the text. These processes go beyond the literal level of comprehension, which is key to understanding why the correct choice is focused specifically on direct content references.