Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

Which strategy might a reader use to decode an unknown multisyllabic word?

1. Guessing the word based on context hints

2. Identifying known word parts and syllable patterns

3. Skipping the word entirely

4. Reading the word quickly without stopping

The correct answer is: Guessing the word based on context hints

The strategy of identifying known word parts and syllable patterns is a valuable approach for decoding unknown multisyllabic words. By focusing on recognizable prefixes, suffixes, and root words, a reader can break the word down into manageable segments, making it easier to pronounce and understand the overall meaning. This method leverages the reader's existing knowledge of the language structure, enabling them to construct meaning from the components of the unknown word. Furthermore, recognizing syllable patterns helps in accurately segmenting the word, facilitating smoother decoding and comprehension. Relying solely on context hints may provide a rough guess of the word, but it doesn't specifically aid in pronunciation or understanding the word's complete structure. Skipping the word entirely bypasses the opportunity to learn and engage with the text. Reading quickly without stopping can lead to misunderstandings and will not contribute to accurately decoding unfamiliar words. Therefore, identifying known word parts and syllable patterns stands out as the most effective strategy for decoding multisyllabic words.