Which option best describes a positive reinforcement approach during a reading session?

Which option best describes a positive reinforcement approach during a reading session?

• A. Praise the paying attention student.
• B. Scold the non-engaged student.
• C. End the reading.
• D. Ignore the behavior.

Answer: (A)

Positive reinforcement adds something desirable after a behavior to increase its likelihood. In a reading session, praising the student who is paying attention directly links the act of staying focused with a positive outcome, making it more likely they’ll repeat that behavior. Specific, immediate praise—like noting their focus and smooth reading—strengthens the connection between attention and reinforcement, encouraging ongoing engagement. The other approaches don’t promote the desired behavior: scolding the non-engaged student can create negative feelings or resistance, ending the reading cuts off practice, and ignoring the behavior misses the opportunity to shape it.

Positive reinforcement adds something desirable after a behavior to increase its likelihood. In a reading session, praising the student who is paying attention directly links the act of staying focused with a positive outcome, making it more likely they’ll repeat that behavior. Specific, immediate praise—like noting their focus and smooth reading—strengthens the connection between attention and reinforcement, encouraging ongoing engagement. The other approaches don’t promote the desired behavior: scolding the non-engaged student can create negative feelings or resistance, ending the reading cuts off practice, and ignoring the behavior misses the opportunity to shape it.