| Abstract: | The inclusion of "purpose questions" before passages in reading comprehension tests is evaluated in light of recent research related to schema theory and adjunct questions. Schema-theoretic studies of prepassage cues to the theme of a reading selection suggest that purpose questions may serve a schema activating function. Recent studies of higher level (nonliteral) prepassage questions also support this view. Conclusions commonly drawn from studies using literal level prepassage questions cannot be applied directly to the use of purpose questions on the Metropolitan Achievement Tests. While research supports the use of purpose questions, gaps and weaknesses in the available data exist. Suggestions for further study are provided. |
