What strategy effectively assists emergent readers in using semantic clues during reading?

The strategy that effectively assists emergent readers in using semantic clues during reading is best represented by predicting content based on pictures. This approach encourages children to look at images and make connections to the text, tapping into their prior knowledge and experiences to anticipate what the story might be about. When emergent readers focus on pictures, they are able to derive meanings and make inferences that enhance their comprehension and engagement with the text.

Using pictures as a guide fosters their ability to construct meaning and increases confidence in their reading abilities, as they realize that the visual context can provide valuable information that complements the words on the page. This strategy also promotes discussions about the story and vocabulary, further supporting their language development.

The other options, while beneficial in certain contexts, do not directly enhance the use of semantic clues as effectively as the strategy of predicting content based on pictures. For instance, reading aloud with expression is important for modeling fluency and enthusiasm for reading but does not engage the child in making predictions. Covering up words can create confusion and does not connect the visuals with the text meaningfully. Phonetic spelling games help develop phonemic awareness but do not directly support understanding through semantic clues.