What is the purpose of decodable texts in early instruction?

• A. To provide practice with words that represent concepts taught directly
• B. To confuse students with heavy syntax
• C. To focus only on story plot
• D. To replace decodable words with invented ones

Answer: (A)

Decodable texts are designed to give students controlled practice with words that follow the phonics patterns they’ve learned. Because the vocabulary is built from those patterns, readers can blend sounds and decode accurately, which helps them read more smoothly and build fluency in connected text. This approach lets learners apply phonics knowledge in context without being derailed by irregular spellings or complex syntax, supporting gradual independence as decoding becomes automatic.