Which element enhances a reader's understanding of the text by providing background information?

The element that enhances a reader's understanding of the text by providing background information is contextual clues. Contextual clues are pieces of information in the text that help readers comprehend the main ideas, themes, and details by offering necessary background or situational understanding. This information can come from definitions, synonyms, examples, or situations described in the surrounding text that clarify new or complex ideas.

In contrast, the author’s purpose refers to the reason why the author wrote the text, which might provide insights into the overall message but does not directly inform readers about the specifics within the text. Transition words guide readers through the structure of the text, indicating relationships between ideas or guiding them from one aspect to another, but they do not supply background information. Figurative language, such as metaphors and similes, adds depth and creativity to the writing but can also obfuscate meaning if the reader does not grasp the underlying concepts. Therefore, while all these elements contribute to the reading experience, contextual clues are essential for enhancing comprehension through background information.