The ability to understand and form questions is fundamental to which aspect of emergent readers?

The ability to understand and form questions is fundamental to constructing meaning during discussions or listening to a story because it actively engages students in the reading process. When emergent readers ask and answer questions, they are encouraged to think critically about the text, make predictions, and draw inferences. This questioning fosters a deeper comprehension of the material and enhances their ability to connect ideas and concepts, leading to a more meaningful interaction with the story.

Engaging in discussions around questions also helps emergent readers to clarify their understanding and express their thoughts, enabling them to become more effective communicators. This skill is crucial for developing literacy because as children learn to articulate their questions, they simultaneously improve their listening skills and their ability to absorb information from what they hear, which further supports their reading development.