The Importance of Background Information When Reading Informational Text in the Primary Classroom

The goal of this study was to examine the impact background knowledge has on the reading and comprehension of informational text. I believe that background knowledge on the content and genre related to informational text is essential in order to comprehend this genre of text. This study examines how kindergarten students interacted with informational text and the impact background knowledge had on their understanding of informational text. Data was collected through assessments, field notes, and surveys. This study found that kindergarten students are not only capable of learning from informational text, but that they also enjoy reading this genre. It also found that students require background knowledge not just on the content topic, but on the genre of informational text as well. This study emphasizes the importance of using informational text in today’s primary classrooms