In the context of reading, what does "prosody" refer to?

Prosody refers to the expression and rhythm in reading, encompassing the tone, pitch, volume, and cadence that a reader employs. When a reader demonstrates prosody, they convey meaning through their voice, enhancing comprehension and engagement with the text. This aspect of reading is crucial as it helps to reflect the emotional content and structure of the written material, making it more accessible for the audience.

Understanding prosody is vital for effective reading instruction, as it influences a student’s ability to interpret the nuances of a text, such as the mood or emphasis of certain phrases. In contrast, the other options address different components of reading comprehension and literacy skills, such as identifying themes, summarizing content, and understanding phonemes, but do not accurately capture the essence of how reading is expressed and rhythmically articulated.