What contributes significantly to a student’s reading development?

The correct choice underscores the importance of rich language experiences and interactions in a student's reading development. Engaging with a variety of language experiences—such as conversations, storytelling, and exposure to diverse vocabulary—creates a dynamic environment that encourages comprehension skills, vocabulary expansion, and fluency. These interactions not only help students to decode words but also enhance their ability to understand and connect with the material they read.

Rich language experiences stimulate cognitive processes that are critical for developing deeper reading skills. For instance, when children engage in discussions about stories, they practice critical thinking and comprehension strategies that go beyond simply recognizing words on a page. This multifaceted approach allows students to develop a more contextual and nuanced understanding of language, which is essential for becoming proficient readers.

The other options do not provide the same depth of engagement or supportive framework for reading development. Focusing solely on average reading level practice may not challenge students enough to grow, while increased homework assignments might lead to fatigue without fostering a love for reading. Restricting reading materials to classic texts only can also limit exposure to various types of language and contemporary contexts, which reduces a student's overall engagement and enjoyment of reading. In contrast, the approach of fostering rich language experiences creates an enriching environment that is vital for effective reading development