Correct Response: D. Option D is correct because evidence indicates that the development of spelling and phonics skills is reciprocal; when instruction in these two skill areas is aligned, development of each skill area is reinforced and enhanced. Thus, learning the spelling patterns of words reinforces phonics learning and supports development of automatic word recognition. Option Ais incorrect because the phonological awareness skill of onset-rime segmentation precedes and contributes to students' spelling development, not the reverse as stated in Option A. Option B is incorrect because spelling instruction does not focus on a finite set of orthographic guidelines. In addition, focusing on a finite set of orthographic guidelines would not streamline the reading process. Option C is incorrect because most words targeted in spelling instruction are not new to students but already part of their oral vocabulary.
