Which of the following best describes orthographic mapping?

Orthographic mapping refers to the cognitive process that enables individuals to connect the sounds of spoken language (phonemes) with the letters and letter patterns (graphemes) that represent those sounds in written form. This process is crucial for reading and writing because it allows for the efficient storing of words in long-term memory, making it easier for individuals to recognize and recall them automatically during reading tasks.

When effective orthographic mapping occurs, learners can visualize words and understand their structure, leading to faster and more fluent reading. This is especially important in developing literacy skills, as it lays the groundwork for recognizing familiar words, decoding new words, and ultimately enhancing overall reading comprehension.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of orthographic mapping. While phonics and vocabulary learning are important components of literacy, they do not specifically define the focused process of storing words in memory as orthographic mapping does. Similarly, handwriting skills may be related to literacy development but are not the primary concern of orthographic mapping.