What characterizes 'academically engaged' students?

Students who are described as 'academically engaged' exhibit active participation in their learning processes. This means they are involved in activities, discussing ideas, asking questions, and comprehending tasks in a meaningful way. Engagement goes beyond merely being present; it encompasses an active involvement in learning, where students connect with the material, share their thoughts, and collaborate with peers.

The other choices do not accurately capture the essence of engagement. Enjoying reading fiction, for instance, may reflect a student's interests but does not necessarily indicate active participation in learning. Remaining silent during class suggests a lack of engagement rather than a strong involvement. Identifying main ideas is a skill that can show comprehension but does not fully represent the broader concept of being actively engaged in the learning environment. Thus, the emphasis on active participation and comprehension in option B is what categorizes students as academically engaged.