Which of the following is emphasized in upper elementary reading instruction?

The emphasis in upper elementary reading instruction on phonemic awareness and vocabulary is crucial for several reasons. Phonemic awareness, which involves the ability to hear, identify, and manipulate individual sounds (phonemes) in spoken words, is foundational for developing decoding skills that are essential for reading. As students progress into upper elementary grades, they are expected to read more complex texts, and a solid understanding of phonemic awareness aids in navigating these challenges.

Vocabulary development is also a significant focus at this stage. As children encounter a wider range of texts and subjects, a rich vocabulary enables them to comprehend more sophisticated language and ideas. This understanding is critical not only for reading comprehension but also for general academic success, as vocabulary directly influences a student's ability to engage with written content across different disciplines.

In contrast, options emphasizing only phonological comprehension or restricting reading to specific genres would limit a student's overall reading development and comprehension skills. Reading instruction in this age group needs to be comprehensive, incorporating various aspects of literacy development to prepare students for higher-level reading challenges.