In reading instruction, what aspect of a student is often a key obstacle?

Motivation plays a crucial role in a student's reading development and overall learning process. When students are motivated, they are more likely to engage with texts, persist through challenges, and develop a deeper comprehension of the material. Motivation can stem from personal interests, the relevance of the content to their lives, and their perceived self-efficacy in reading skills.

In contrast, while intelligence may influence a student’s ability to process information, it is not the sole determinant of reading success. A student with high intelligence may still struggle with reading if their motivation is low. Similarly, interest level is important, but without motivation, even a student interested in a topic may not fully engage in reading if they lack the drive to do so. Finally, homework completion is often a reflection of a student's organization and responsibility rather than a direct indicator of their reading abilities or challenges. Thus, motivation is a fundamental aspect that can significantly impact a student's success in reading instruction.