Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

What is a benefit of explicit phonics instruction?

1. Decreased interest in reading

2. Improved ability to decode and spell

3. Reduced comprehension skills

4. Slower reading speed

The correct answer is: Improved ability to decode and spell

Explicit phonics instruction provides a structured approach to teaching the relationships between sounds and letters, which is essential for developing decoding skills. This method helps students recognize the sounds that correspond to letters and letter combinations, enabling them to decode words more effectively. As their decoding skills improve, students also enhance their ability to spell because they learn to apply the same phonetic principles in writing. Mastering these foundational skills contributes significantly to reading fluency, which leads to better overall reading comprehension. This approach lays the groundwork for students to tackle more complex texts as they progress, fostering a greater understanding of language and literature overall.