During the decoding reader stage, what is a child likely to read?

In the decoding reader stage, children are typically developing their skills in recognizing and processing written words. At this stage, they are most likely to read simple, familiar stories that align with their developing linguistic abilities. These texts often contain repetitive structures and predictable patterns, which help reinforce their decoding skills and build confidence as readers. Familiar stories allow them to apply their phonetic knowledge and practice their ability to blend sounds, aiding in the mastery of basic reading strategies.

More complex literary texts would likely overwhelm a child at this stage, as they may not yet have the vocabulary or comprehension skills needed to fully engage with such material. Fluency drills might focus more on repetition and practice without a narrative context, and advanced vocabulary lists could introduce words that are beyond their current grasp, leading to frustration rather than successful reading experiences. Thus, simple, familiar stories provide the appropriate balance of challenge and familiarity to support growth in decoding skills.