TEXES Science of Teaching Reading Practice Test

What should a teacher control when conducting a making-words activity with first graders?

1. Allowing students to use any letters they want

2. Only including words that align with taught letter-sound correspondences

3. Limiting the activity to one-syllable words only

4. Using advanced vocabulary words for challenges

The correct answer is: Using advanced vocabulary words for challenges

In a making-words activity for first graders, the focus should be on the developmental stage of the students and the foundational skills they are acquiring. Controlling the word choices to include only those that align with the taught letter-sound correspondences is crucial for reinforcing the phonics skills that students are learning. Using words they are familiar with helps them apply their knowledge of letter sounds, improving their ability to decode and spell concurrently. By limiting the activity to those specific correspondences, teachers ensure that students are not overwhelmed with unfamiliar vocabulary, which could lead to confusion and frustration, rather than engagement and learning. This approach allows for effective differentiation, as students can practice building words with the sounds they have already encountered in their lessons, fostering a deeper understanding of phonics and spelling patterns as they progress in their reading abilities.