Question 80

Explicit and systematic instruction is provided in the alphabetic principle.

The alphabetic principle refers to the understanding that letters represent sounds in spoken language. This foundational skill is crucial for early literacy development, making it the focus of explicit and systematic instruction.

A) Print awareness

Print awareness involves recognizing that print carries meaning and understanding the functions of print in various contexts. While important for literacy, it is not the primary focus of explicit and systematic instruction in the alphabetic principle.

B) Alphabetic principle

The alphabetic principle is the correct answer as it encompasses the understanding that the letters of the alphabet correspond to sounds, which is fundamental for reading and writing. This skill is typically taught through structured and systematic methods.

C) Phonemic awareness

Phonemic awareness is the ability to hear and manipulate the individual sounds in words. Although it is a critical component of early literacy, it is distinct from the alphabetic principle, which focuses on the relationship between letters and sounds rather than just sound manipulation.

D) Letter knowledge

Letter knowledge involves recognizing and naming letters as well as understanding their corresponding sounds. While this skill supports the alphabetic principle, it is not the direct focus of the explicit instruction described, which centers on the relationship between letters and sounds.

Conclusion

The alphabetic principle is essential for developing reading skills, and explicit instruction in this area ensures that students understand how letters correspond to sounds. Other options, while relevant to literacy development, do not specifically address the systematic teaching of the connections between letters and sounds, making them less aligned with the question’s focus.