Which strategy is focused on the improvement of vocabulary and comprehension skills?

The strategy that focuses on the improvement of vocabulary and comprehension skills is pre-reading and post-reading strategies. These techniques are designed to enhance understanding and retention of the text by engaging students before, during, and after reading.

Pre-reading strategies activate prior knowledge, prime students for the content, and set a purpose for reading, which can greatly enhance vocabulary acquisition as students become more familiar with the context in which words are used. Post-reading strategies, on the other hand, encourage reflection on what has been read, facilitating deeper comprehension and the retention of vocabulary. Together, these strategies not only help learners gain a better grasp of the text but also expand their vocabulary through contextual and meaningful engagement with the material.

The other strategies, while beneficial in certain areas, do not specifically target both vocabulary and overall comprehension in the same integrated manner as pre-reading and post-reading strategies do. For example, structural-analysis activities may improve understanding of word formations, but they do not necessarily encompass the broader context of comprehension. Practical simulations often focus on applying concepts in real-life scenarios rather than directly enhancing reading skills. Direct instruction in decoding skills is crucial for word recognition but primarily targets the mechanics of reading rather than the comprehension or vocabulary enhancement that comes from engaging with text in a holistic way.