What aspect is critical to the success of reading aloud to students who may struggle with the text?

The success of reading aloud to students who may struggle with the text significantly hinges on stopping to explain vocabulary and concepts as needed. This approach allows the librarian or teacher to provide immediate support for students' understanding, enhancing comprehension and engagement with the material. By addressing challenging words and unfamiliar ideas in real-time, the reader helps students connect with the text and encourages them to develop their vocabulary. This interaction can make the reading experience more accessible and enjoyable, leading to increased confidence and a greater interest in reading. This technique recognizes that comprehension is a critical element of literacy development, particularly for struggling readers who benefit from scaffolding during the reading process.