What should a teacher use to assist students in developing skills for formulating judgments about texts?

The best option for assisting students in developing skills for formulating judgments about texts is higher order questioning. This approach encourages students to think critically and analytically. By posing questions that require them to evaluate, synthesize, and apply information, teachers guide students to dig deeper into the texts. This kind of questioning stimulates discussion and reflection, allowing students to articulate their thoughts and judgments about content.

Through higher order questions such as "What is the author's purpose?" or "How would you compare and contrast these characters?" students engage with the text at a deeper level. This enables them to develop a more nuanced understanding and to make informed judgments based on textual evidence. The other options, while valuable in different contexts, do not focus as effectively on the critical thinking and evaluative skills required for formulating judgments about texts.