Which statement differentiates decoding from encoding?

Which statement differentiates decoding from encoding?

• A. Decoding translates printed words into speech.
• B. Encoding spells words from language into written form.
• C. Decoding is the same as encoding.
• D. Decoding translates printed words into speech; encoding spells words from language into written form.

Answer: (D)

The idea being tested is how decoding and encoding function as opposite directions in literacy. Decoding means turning written words into spoken language: when you read a word on the page and say it aloud, you’re decoding. Encoding means turning spoken language into written form: when you hear someone say a word and you write it down, you’re encoding. The statement that includes both parts—decoding translates printed words into speech and encoding spells words from language into written form—shows the two processes clearly and contrasts them, which is why it's the best choice. The other options either describe only one process or claim the two are the same, which doesn’t reflect how reading aloud and spelling are separate skills.

The idea being tested is how decoding and encoding function as opposite directions in literacy. Decoding means turning written words into spoken language: when you read a word on the page and say it aloud, you’re decoding. Encoding means turning spoken language into written form: when you hear someone say a word and you write it down, you’re encoding. The statement that includes both parts—decoding translates printed words into speech and encoding spells words from language into written form—shows the two processes clearly and contrasts them, which is why it's the best choice. The other options either describe only one process or claim the two are the same, which doesn’t reflect how reading aloud and spelling are separate skills.