Which term describes the correct decoding of words and is essential to fluent reading?

Which term describes the correct decoding of words and is essential to fluent reading?

• A. Accuracy
• B. Prosody
• C. Plot
• D. Exposition

Answer: (A)

Reading fluency relies on accurate word decoding; when a reader can correctly recognize or sound out words, they process text quickly and can focus their attention on understanding the message. This accurate decoding keeps the reading smooth and steady, which is the foundation of fluent reading. Prosody—the expression, phrasing, and intonation used while reading—also supports fluency, but it comes into play once decoding is efficient. It helps convey meaning and rhythm, making reading more natural. The other terms describe parts of a story or how it's structured rather than how well a reader decodes words, so they don’t fit as the best descriptor of fluent reading.

Reading fluency relies on accurate word decoding; when a reader can correctly recognize or sound out words, they process text quickly and can focus their attention on understanding the message. This accurate decoding keeps the reading smooth and steady, which is the foundation of fluent reading. Prosody—the expression, phrasing, and intonation used while reading—also supports fluency, but it comes into play once decoding is efficient. It helps convey meaning and rhythm, making reading more natural. The other terms describe parts of a story or how it's structured rather than how well a reader decodes words, so they don’t fit as the best descriptor of fluent reading.