What does "prior knowledge" signify in reading?

"Prior knowledge" signifies the experiences and ideas one brings to textual materials, making it a crucial element in the reading process. When individuals engage with a text, they do not approach it with a blank slate; instead, they utilize their existing knowledge, cultural background, and personal experiences to make sense of new information. This pre-existing understanding helps them to make connections, enhance comprehension, and interpret the text in a more meaningful way.

For instance, if a student reads a story about a farm and has prior experience visiting one, they can visualize the setting better and relate to the content more deeply. Recognizing and tapping into this prior knowledge is fundamental for effective reading instruction, as it allows educators to build on students’ existing frameworks and facilitate enhanced learning and retention.