Question

During reading, your eyes typically stop on a word for about 250 milliseconds. In what situation(s) do your eyes need to fixate longer on a word?

a. when you read silently
b. when you read aloud
c. when you read an unfamiliar word

Answer 1

Eyes fixate longer on a word when reading an unfamiliar word or reading aloud due to the increased cognitive processing required. Additional factors like fatigue and complex material also cause longer fixations. Option number b and c is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

During reading, your eyes usually fixate on a word for about 250 milliseconds. However, they need to fixate longer on a word in specific situations. One prominent situation is when you read an unfamiliar word. This occurs because the brain needs more time to process and understand new vocabulary, including decoding its meaning, pronunciation, and context within the text. As a result, the fixation duration tends to be longer.

Another instance where longer fixation is necessary is when you are engaged in reading aloud. This is because reading aloud involves not only recognizing the word but also coordinating with speech production mechanisms, which demands additional cognitive processing time.

Lastly, the duration of fixations can also increase when the reader is tired or when the material is complex. Our brains utilize heuristics to streamline cognitive processes, but when confronted with novel information, these shortcuts are less effective, and more focused attention is required.