What insight does the teacher provide in the mini-lesson about cognates during guided reading?

The teacher highlights the connection between a learner's first language (L1) and the second language (L2) in the context of cognates, which are words that have similar meanings and forms in both languages. This connection is particularly valuable during guided reading because it enhances comprehension for English Language Learners (ELLs). By recognizing cognates, students can access their prior knowledge from L1 and better understand new vocabulary in L2. This understanding facilitates reading comprehension, allows for more meaningful engagement with texts, and builds confidence in language acquisition. This approach values the linguistic resources students already possess and uses them as a foundation for learning a new language, ultimately supporting their overall language development.