What does effective whole-language instruction emphasize?

Effective whole-language instruction focuses on recognizing themes and contexts in language, as it encourages learners to immerse themselves in whole texts and understand meaning through context, rather than just through isolated components of language. This approach views reading and writing as holistic processes that involve recognizing the relationships between words and their meanings within meaningful contexts.

Whole-language instruction promotes the idea that students should experience language naturally, much like they acquire spoken language, through interaction with written texts that reflect authentic communication. This method encourages the exploration of literature and helps students make connections between different pieces of language, thereby enhancing comprehension and critical thinking skills.

In contrast, the other options emphasize more fragmented or rigid approaches to language learning, such as isolating letters and sounds, memorizing vocabulary lists without context, or adhering strictly to grammatical rules, which can stifle the broader understanding and appreciation of language that whole-language instruction aims to foster. The emphasis on themes and context allows students to engage with texts on a deeper level, promoting motivation and a love for reading as they find meaning in what they encounter.