North Carolina Foundations of Reading Practice Test

Which characteristic is most indicative of a student who may require special reading assistance?

1. A student who reads fluently but lacks comprehension

2. A student who struggles with decoding certain letter sounds

3. A student who can articulate ideas verbally but not in writing

4. A student who prefers silent reading to participate in groups

The correct answer is: A student who struggles with decoding certain letter sounds

The choice indicating that a student struggles with decoding certain letter sounds is most indicative of a need for special reading assistance because decoding is a foundational skill in reading. Decoding refers to the ability to understand and apply the relationships between letters and sounds, which is essential for reading words accurately. When a student has difficulty with decoding, this can lead to broader challenges in reading fluency and comprehension. Students who struggle to recognize and sound out letters may find it hard to progress in their reading skills independently. This foundational gap can impact their ability to access grade-level texts and fully participate in the curriculum. Early intervention in decoding skills can help address these challenges, allowing the student to build a stronger reading base, which can lead to improved overall literacy. While the other options reflect various reading-related challenges, they do not solely focus on decoding, which is critical for developing proficient reading abilities. A student who reads fluently but lacks comprehension might still have strong decoding skills but struggles with understanding the material. Articulating ideas verbally but not in writing reflects a different aspect of literacy, often linked to writing skills rather than reading. Lastly, a preference for silent reading over group participation does not inherently indicate a need for special assistance; it could be related to personal comfort levels