Which reading developmental stage is characterized by recognizing basic concepts of print?

The correct choice reflects the stage of emergent reading, which is typically the stage where children begin to recognize the basic concepts of print. This includes an understanding of how books function, such as knowing that text is read from left to right, understanding that pictures and symbols carry meaning, and being able to identify letters and words. During this developmental phase, children start to grasp the foundational elements of reading, which are critical for building their literacy skills.

Emergent readers often engage with books in ways that allow them to observe and mimic reading behaviors, which is essential for their development. They may not yet be able to read words fluently, but their recognition of print concepts is a critical indicator of their readiness to progress to more advanced stages of reading, such as early reading or transitional reading.

Understanding the features of emergent reading is crucial for educators, as it helps them support young learners as they take their first steps into literacy.