Which student is at the highest risk for difficulties in learning to read?

A student with limited oral language development is at the highest risk for difficulties in learning to read because foundational language skills are crucial for reading comprehension and literacy development. Oral language development includes the ability to understand and produce language, which is essential for decoding words and grasping meanings when reading. Students who struggle with vocabulary and language use may find it more challenging to connect sounds with letters, recognize words, and comprehend texts, leading to difficulties in reading.

In contrast, students with strong vocabulary skills, a love for storytelling, or prior reading experience have advantages that support their reading development. Strong vocabulary provides a basis for understanding text, enjoyment of storytelling fosters motivation and engagement with reading, and prior reading experience offers skills and knowledge that enhance reading proficiency. These factors contribute positively to a child's ability to learn to read effectively.