In the context of reading instruction, what does "decoding" primarily rely on?

Decoding primarily relies on connecting phonics to written words. This process involves understanding how letters and combinations of letters correspond to the sounds of spoken language. When students decode, they apply their knowledge of phonics—the relationships between sounds and the letters that represent them—to read words aloud. This foundational skill is essential for developing reading proficiency, as it allows learners to sound out unfamiliar words, ensuring that they can access and understand text.

In contrast, identifying main ideas focuses on comprehension after reading, analyzing literary themes pertains to understanding deeper meanings within texts, and composing original texts involves writing skills, which are separate from the decoding process. Thus, the ability to decode effectively is fundamental for early reading development, as it provides the necessary skills to engage with written language.