Orthographic mapping refers to which process?

• A. Recognizing and storing visual word forms in long-term memory and linking them to spoken forms through repeated exposure
• B. Memorizing the definitions of words
• C. Sounding out every word before recognizing it
• D. Writing words without meaning

Answer: (A)

Orthographic mapping is the process by which readers build stable connections between how a word looks in print and how it sounds, storing those mappings in long-term memory through repeated exposure. This enables quick recognition of familiar words without having to sound them out every time, forming the mental sight-word representations that underpin fluent reading. It relies on linking visual word forms to their spoken forms and strengthening that link with practice. This isn’t about memorizing definitions, decoding every word aloud each time, or writing words without meaning.