Background Knowledge
In this article, we will answer the following questions:
What is background knowledge?
Why is background knowledge important?
How can we most efficiently build background knowledge?
To fully comprehend much of high caliber literature, readers need to meet a certain threshold of knowledge about the specific topic, overarching theme, and cultural context. Without such knowledge, it becomes difficult to construct a meaningful mental model of the text. Hence, background knowledge is one of the most important tools a reader needs to be equipped with, especially when tackling a new text.
Background knowledge is defined as information or knowledge that is essential to understanding a particular situation or problem.
Background knowledge helps readers in many ways. At its most basic level, it enables readers to differentiate between words with multiple meanings. We can take the word “operation” for example. If we read it in a medical journal, it is likely to be interpreted as a synonym for surgery. If we read it in a maths book, it refers to a mathematical calculation. However, if we were simply given “operation” on its own, without the above context, differentiating it would be a perplexing challenge. Therefore, words with multiple meanings can be difficult to decipher if you do not have sufficient background knowledge.
Furthermore, readers are constantly required to make plot inferences that rely on background knowledge. Thus, background information often acts as a road map for students, allowing them to understand and navigate their way through literary devices like idioms or metaphors.
Now that we have established its importance in aiding comprehension, how can we actively build background knowledge? Well, here are a few helpful tips and tools to utilize when trying to maximize your background knowledge:
Think of comparisons to other works you have read or consumed in your text analysis. They help you think outside the immediate context of the text and consider the reasoning behind the author’s literary choices, which can further your overall understanding of the text.
Use analogies. An analogy is another type of comparison, but this time, it is a specific comparison made between two things that are generally perceived to be different from each other. (Ex: use similes (comparisons using the words like or as) or metaphors (comparisons without using like or as) Analogies serve the same purpose as other contrasts and comparisons.
Encourage topic-focused “wide reading.” Without a doubt, normal reading builds knowledge. However, “wide reading” is a way of reading that allows you to explore numerous topics, demonstrating breadth rather than depth in reading. By reading more books on a certain topic, children will develop deeper knowledge and expertise on that topic. In the context of literary analysis, reading many related works with similar themes to a main text will help you better grasp the overall theme and ultimately gain valuable background knowledge on the main text.
Embrace multimedia. Direct, in-person experiences are the most compelling ways to build knowledge. As many teachers can attest, there is nothing more thrilling for readers than engaging in learning through field trips or other hands-on activities. Although multimedia is certainly not a replacement for real-life experiences, it can often introduce you to important themes and concepts in a highly engaging way, especially since most people today spend so much time online. Examples of multimedia forms that can be used to aid your reading include text-to-speech, animation, embedded dictionaries, linked videos, and study tools such as highlighters and annotation capabilities.
Ultimately, background knowledge is essential for all readers. Fortunately, many tools and resources are available to enhance our background knowledge. To become better readers, we should all recognize the importance of this skill and strive to improve it.
References
Coppola, Shawna (2014). Building Background Knowledge. The Reading Teacher, 68(2), 145–148 DOI
Alise Brann, Tracy Gray, Judy Zorfass, PowerUp WHAT WORKS (2009)