What does the alphabetic principle explain?

The alphabetic principle is a foundational concept in reading that explains how letters correspond to sounds, and how these sounds come together to form words. Essentially, it articulates the relationship between phonemes (the smallest units of sound) and graphemes (the letters or groups of letters that represent those sounds). This understanding is crucial for students as they learn to decode words during reading. By grasping the alphabetic principle, children develop the ability to sound out words, recognize spelling patterns, and ultimately gain proficiency in reading.

In contrast to the correct answer, the other options do not accurately capture the essence of the alphabetic principle. Words being formed through repetitive practice does not encompass the connection between letters and sounds that the principle emphasizes. Learning sounds in isolation without linking them to letters ignores the critical component of literacy that the alphabetic principle highlights. Lastly, the notion that reading is primarily visual neglects the integral phonetic aspect of reading, which is central to the alphabetic principle. Therefore, the correct interpretation focuses on the vital link between letters and their corresponding sounds, which is foundational for reading and literacy development.