FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which term describes reading with a natural rhythm and pace?

1. Phoneme recognition

2. Prosody

3. Fluency

4. Comprehension

The correct answer is: Prosody

The term that describes reading with a natural rhythm and pace is prosody. Prosody refers to the patterns of stress and intonation in spoken language, which also apply to reading aloud. When readers exhibit prosody, they read in a way that reflects the expressive qualities of language, such as varying their tone, speed, and volume to convey meaning effectively. This includes recognizing punctuation and phrasing, allowing the reader to deliver the text in a way that mirrors natural speech patterns. Using prosody is essential for enhancing comprehension because it helps to convey the emotional content of the text and the relationships between ideas. Readers who demonstrate prosody are typically able to communicate the intended meaning of the text more effectively, making it engaging and easier for listeners or audiences to follow along. Thus, prosody is a critical component of fluent reading, reflecting the reader's understanding of the text beyond just the mechanics of reading the words.