Why is reading for comprehension considered recursive?

Reading for comprehension is considered recursive because it involves an ongoing process of engaging with the text in a manner that requires revisiting and revising one's understanding. This process includes reading, re-reading, and actively making connections between the new information and what one already knows, which allows for deeper understanding and synthesis of the material.

When readers approach a text, they often first read through for general understanding, then revisit sections to clarify, analyze, or connect ideas that may not have been clear initially. Each pass through the text allows readers to build on their previous knowledge, enriching their comprehension as they integrate new concepts with their existing background knowledge.

The idea of recursion in comprehension emphasizes that understanding is not linear; rather, it is a dynamic and iterative process where readers continuously refine their interpretations and insights about the material. This is why reading for comprehension requires the strategies of re-reading and connection-making to fully grasp the nuances and complexities of the text.