In the framework described by Perfetti and Lesgold, which theory explains that fluent reading requires efficient word coding in addition to decoding?

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Multiple Choice

In the framework described by Perfetti and Lesgold, which theory explains that fluent reading requires efficient word coding in addition to decoding?

Fluent reading comes from more than just sounding out letters; it requires fast, automatic word recognition so that cognitive energy can be directed toward understanding. Perfetti and Lesgold’s Verbal Efficiency Theory captures this by arguing that skilled reading depends on efficient word coding—rapid access to word representations from orthography and phonology—alongside decoding. When word identification is efficient, decoding becomes automatic, freeing mental resources to extract meaning and read fluently. Other ideas focus on different aspects: Whole Language emphasizes meaning and use of authentic text rather than how quickly words are recognized; Word Calling describes rapid reading without adequate comprehension; Sight Word theories stress recognizing high-frequency words by sight without decoding, which doesn’t account for the need to combine rapid word recognition with decoding for true fluency.

Fluent reading comes from more than just sounding out letters; it requires fast, automatic word recognition so that cognitive energy can be directed toward understanding. Perfetti and Lesgold’s Verbal Efficiency Theory captures this by arguing that skilled reading depends on efficient word coding—rapid access to word representations from orthography and phonology—alongside decoding. When word identification is efficient, decoding becomes automatic, freeing mental resources to extract meaning and read fluently.

Other ideas focus on different aspects: Whole Language emphasizes meaning and use of authentic text rather than how quickly words are recognized; Word Calling describes rapid reading without adequate comprehension; Sight Word theories stress recognizing high-frequency words by sight without decoding, which doesn’t account for the need to combine rapid word recognition with decoding for true fluency.

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