Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

In oral language development, syntactic skills involve:

1. Manipulating sounds in spoken words

2. Understanding social rules of language

3. Understanding grammatical rules and word organization in sentences

4. Recognizing meanings of word parts

The correct answer is: Understanding grammatical rules and word organization in sentences

Syntactic skills in oral language development specifically pertain to the understanding of grammatical rules and the organization of words in sentences. This involves knowledge of how different parts of speech (such as nouns, verbs, adjectives, etc.) come together to create well-formed sentences that convey meaning. Mastery of syntax allows individuals to construct sentences correctly and to comprehend the structure of sentences produced by others, facilitating effective communication. The ability to utilize syntax enhances both speaking and listening skills, enabling individuals to express complex ideas and understand nuanced language within various contexts. This foundational aspect of language development is critical for literacy and overall language proficiency.