Which of the following is a characteristic of effective phonics instruction?

Effective phonics instruction is characterized by its inclusion of understanding the structure of words. This means that it not only focuses on the relationship between letters and sounds but also emphasizes how words are constructed from smaller units of meaning, such as syllables, morphemes, and phonemes. By understanding word structure, students can decode new words, recognize patterns in spelling, and enhance their overall reading comprehension.

Phonics instruction that incorporates word structure also helps students develop their spelling skills, as they learn to analyze and break down words into their components. This understanding fosters a deeper connection to language and promotes more effective reading strategies, leading to greater literacy development.

In contrast, relying solely on rote memorization would not equip students with the necessary skills to decode new or unfamiliar words. Ignoring the relationship between sounds and letters would hinder the foundational aspects of phonics. Meanwhile, limiting instruction to written language overlooks the importance of phonemic awareness and auditory skills in reading development.