Final answer:
The most effective approach to teaching reading comprehension by second grade is the emphasis on d) comprehension strategies, which support active engagement and critical thinking.
Step-by-step explanation:
By second grade, the most effective approach to teaching reading comprehension emphasizes comprehension strategies. Comprehension strategies involve actively engaging with the text through techniques such as making predictions, asking questions, summarizing, and inferring. These strategies help students to better understand the material they are reading.
While phonics instruction, whole language approaches, and vocabulary development are important aspects of learning to read, by second grade students should have a foundation in these areas, allowing instruction to shift focus more towards developing strong comprehension skills. Comprehension strategies not only improve understanding but also encourage students to think critically about the texts they read.