Connecticut Foundations of Reading Test (FORT) Practice

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Prepare for the Connecticut Foundations of Reading Test (FORT). Access flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations. Ace your exam with confidence.

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What is the role of phonics in reading?

  1. It helps with the spelling of words

  2. It aids in decoding words by understanding sound-letter relationships

  3. It improves reading fluency without context

  4. It focuses mainly on comprehension

The correct answer is: It aids in decoding words by understanding sound-letter relationships

Phonics plays a crucial role in reading by aiding in decoding words through an understanding of sound-letter relationships. This means that individuals learning to read can use their knowledge of the sounds that letters and combinations of letters represent to break down words into manageable parts. For instance, knowing that the letter "s" represents the /s/ sound and that "at" represents the phoneme /æt/ allows a reader to decode the word "sat" as they blend those sounds together. Phonics instruction equips readers with the tools to sound out unfamiliar words, which is an essential strategy for developing reading skills. This foundational understanding of how sounds correspond to letters and letter combinations not only helps early readers in word recognition but also lays the groundwork for effective vocabulary development and spelling. Through phonics instruction, students gain confidence in their ability to tackle new words as they encounter them in texts. This is vital, especially for beginning readers, as it ultimately contributes to overall literacy development.