How does a student's ability to decode impact their reading?

The ability to decode is fundamental to a student's reading development, as it directly influences both comprehension and engagement with the text. Decoding involves translating written symbols into their spoken equivalents, which is essential for accessing the meaning of words. When a student can effectively decode words, they can read fluently, allowing them to focus on understanding the content rather than becoming bogged down by the mechanics of reading.

Fluency in decoding leads to a greater ability to engage with the material. As students become more proficient at recognizing words, they can enjoy narratives, grasp complex ideas, and make connections between different texts and their own experiences. This thoughtful engagement enhances their comprehension, enabling them to analyze, infer, and derive meaning, which are all critical skills for academic success.

Other options suggest limiting impacts (like only affecting speed or vocabulary recognition), or that decoding has no importance, which overlooks the foundational role of decoding in facilitating comprehensive reading skills. Thus, the correct choice highlights the broader and deeper connection between decoding, comprehension, and thoughtful interaction with texts.