A cause is deficient memory capacity and functioning.

A cause is deficient memory capacity and functioning.

• A. Inadequate instruction
• B. Insufficient exposure and practice
• C. Deficient memory capacity and functioning
• D. Significant language deficiencies

Answer: (C)

Memory capacity and functioning as a cause point to the learner’s cognitive limits that affect how well they process, hold, and retrieve information while reading. When working memory is limited, decoding, keeping phonological information in mind, and linking new words to meaning become more difficult, which can slow reading and hinder comprehension even if instruction is solid and practice is ample. The other factors describe external or separate issues: instruction quality, opportunities for practice, or language abilities, none of which directly name the memory-related processing challenge described here. So this option correctly identifies the memory deficit as the cause.

Memory capacity and functioning as a cause point to the learner’s cognitive limits that affect how well they process, hold, and retrieve information while reading. When working memory is limited, decoding, keeping phonological information in mind, and linking new words to meaning become more difficult, which can slow reading and hinder comprehension even if instruction is solid and practice is ample. The other factors describe external or separate issues: instruction quality, opportunities for practice, or language abilities, none of which directly name the memory-related processing challenge described here. So this option correctly identifies the memory deficit as the cause.