Which task is known to be a strong predictor of learning to read?

Phoneme manipulation tasks are a strong predictor of learning to read because they focus on the ability to recognize and manipulate the smallest units of sound in spoken language, known as phonemes. This skill is crucial in phonics instruction, which teaches children the relationships between letters and sounds. When students can segment, blend, and manipulate phonemes, they better understand how words are constructed, enhancing their reading capabilities. Mastery of these tasks lays a foundation for decoding words, making it easier for students to read unfamiliar words independently.

While spelling tests, comprehension checks, and vocabulary quizzes are valuable in assessing different aspects of literacy, they do not directly relate to the fundamental skills necessary for learning to read. Spelling tests may assess a student's ability to recall written forms of words, comprehension checks evaluate understanding of texts, and vocabulary quizzes assess word knowledge but do not focus directly on the foundational phonemic awareness critical for reading development.