What is the primary purpose of the reading comprehension section in the North American English exam?

The primary purpose of the reading comprehension section in the North American English exam is to assess the test-taker's ability to understand, interpret, and analyze written texts. This section focuses on evaluating how well a person can grasp the meaning of passages, draw inferences, and critically analyze the information presented. The skills tested here are crucial for effective reading in academic and professional settings, enabling individuals to comprehend various types of texts, extract relevant details, and interpret underlying themes or arguments.

In contrast, other options focus on different language skills. Writing skills pertain to the ability to compose text effectively, while vocabulary knowledge assesses the breadth and depth of a person's word understanding. Speaking abilities are evaluated in different contexts, focusing on verbal communication skills rather than reading comprehension. Thus, the correct answer encapsulates the foundational aim of the reading section: to evaluate a test-taker’s comprehension of written material.