Which term describes understanding that sounds relate to written words?

The term that describes understanding that sounds relate to written words is phonological awareness. This concept involves recognizing and manipulating sound structures in language, which includes phonemes (the smallest units of sound), syllables, and rhyme. Phonological awareness is crucial for developing reading skills, as it allows individuals to comprehend the relationship between spoken language and its written form.

Phonological awareness serves as a foundational skill for reading development, enabling learners to connect spoken sounds to written letters and words. It is distinct from other related concepts; for instance, decoding refers specifically to the ability to translate written words into their corresponding sounds and meanings, while orthographic knowledge involves understanding the conventions of spelling and written word formation. Print awareness relates to recognizing that print carries meaning and understanding the basics of how literacy works, such as how to hold a book or the difference between letters and words. However, it is phonological awareness that specifically targets the relationship between sounds and written words.