CLOZE passages are used primarily for what purpose in reading exercises?

CLOZE passages are primarily designed to assess a reader's ability to use context clues and understand syntax as they fill in missing words within a text. This exercise emphasizes the application of knowledge regarding specific parts of speech and encourages the reader to make inferences based on context, enhancing their understanding of language structure and meaning.

By requiring students to actively engage with the text and utilize their comprehension skills, CLOZE passages allow for targeted practice that helps bridge gaps in knowledge. They are effective tools in reading instruction because they focus on the interactive process of reading rather than merely evaluating overall comprehension or introducing vocabulary and literary styles. This emphasis on specific language skills within meaningful contexts is what makes them useful in reading exercises.