What is the process of decoding in reading?

Decoding in reading refers to the process of interpreting written words as spoken words, which involves accessing the sounds associated with letters and groups of letters to form meaningful language. This process is essential for understanding how written symbols correspond to spoken language, allowing readers to pronounce words they have not previously encountered. By successfully decoding words, readers can access the meanings and phonetic sounds, leading to improved comprehension and fluency.

The other options deal with related but distinct concepts. Translating sounds into written words emphasizes the reverse process of encoding rather than decoding. Writing sentences from spoken language is a different skill that focuses on composition rather than reading and decoding. Memorizing phonics rules involves understanding letter-sound relationships but does not directly capture the active process of decoding words in reading.