What does "decoding" refer to in reading?

Decoding refers to the ability to convert printed words into sounds, which is crucial for reading. This process involves using knowledge of letter-sound relationships, also known as phonics, to interpret written text. When a reader decodes, they break down words into their individual sounds (phonemes) and blend those sounds together to form words.

This skill is foundational for reading, as it allows individuals to recognize written words and develop the ability to read fluently. Moreover, effective decoding is linked to comprehension, as recognizing words quickly enables the reader to focus on understanding the overall meaning of the text rather than struggling with pronunciation.

In contrast, memorizing texts does not support the flexible reading skills necessary for engaging with new material, while understanding context is more about comprehension than actual word recognition. Summarizing is a higher-order thinking skill that requires comprehension of the text rather than the basic skill of decoding words.