How is 'reading comprehension' defined?

Reading comprehension is defined as the ability to understand and interpret the meaning of text. This involves not just recognizing words, but also grasping the concepts, context, and implications of what is written. It includes the ability to connect the ideas presented in the text, make inferences, and evaluate information critically, which are essential skills for effective reading.

Comprehension goes beyond simply processing words on a page; it encompasses the reader's capacity to derive meaning and utilize that understanding within a broader context. For example, when someone reads a story, they're not just identifying the words, but they're also drawing on their own experiences and knowledge to engage with the narrative and understand the motivations of the characters, the themes, and the overall message.

In contrast, the other options touch on different aspects of reading but do not encapsulate the full meaning of comprehension. The ability to read quickly focuses solely on speed rather than understanding. Recognition of words is a basic skill necessary for reading but does not imply that the reader comprehends the material. The ability to summarize information relates to comprehension, but it is a specific skill that derives from having understood the text rather than a comprehensive definition of reading comprehension itself.