Which practice best supports children's understanding of the connection between spoken and written language?

Engaging in shared reading experiences is an effective practice for supporting children's understanding of the connection between spoken and written language. During shared reading, children have the opportunity to hear fluent reading while simultaneously following along with the text visually. This exposure helps them understand how the sounds in spoken language correspond to written words and phrases, reinforcing concepts such as vocabulary, syntax, and the structure of language.

Through shared reading, children can see how words are formed, hear the rhythm of language, and experience the narrative flow, making the relationship between oral and written language clearer. Additionally, interactions during these sessions, such as asking questions or discussing the text, further deepen their comprehension and foster important literacy skills.

In contrast, isolating letters and sounds may focus more on phonetic awareness without contextualizing those sounds within meaningful language. Writing only with guidance can limit children's opportunities for exploration and independent understanding, while developing vocabulary through stories, although beneficial, might not directly illustrate the connection between spoken and written language as effectively as shared reading experiences, where both modalities are actively engaged.