During a reading lesson, why might a teacher encourage students to discuss unfamiliar word meanings?

Encouraging students to discuss unfamiliar word meanings significantly enhances their capabilities in inferring meaning from context. This process helps students understand that they can derive meaning from surrounding words and sentences rather than relying solely on memorization. By engaging in discussions, students have the opportunity to explore various interpretations and gain insights into how the context can provide clues about unfamiliar terms. This practice not only builds their vocabulary but also fosters critical thinking skills, enabling them to become more effective and independent readers. Contextual understanding is crucial for reading comprehension, as it allows students to make educated guesses and enriches their overall reading experience.