CTEL 1 Language and Language Development 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The correct answer focuses on how a lack of proficiency in grammar and idiomatic expressions can hinder the microprocesses involved in reading. Microprocesses in reading are the small, detailed actions and cognitive functions that contribute to understanding the text, such as decoding words, understanding sentence structure, and grasping subtle meanings.

When a reader struggles with grammar, they may have difficulty parsing sentences correctly, which can lead to misunderstandings of the text. Similarly, idiomatic expressions often carry meanings that are not directly deducible from the words themselves. A reader unfamiliar with these nuances may miss important implications or the intended meaning of the text.

In contrast, strong background knowledge, proficiency in grammar, and a well-developed vocabulary generally support reading comprehension. These elements provide a foundation for understanding and interpreting text accurately. Without the necessary proficiency in grammar and idiomatic expressions, however, the reader may encounter barriers that inhibit their ability to fully engage with and comprehend what they are reading.