Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Foundations of Reading Practice Exam

Which aspect of language is NOT covered by phonological awareness?

1. Identifying phonemes

2. Manipulating syllables

3. Understanding word meanings

4. Recognizing larger parts of spoken language

The correct answer is: Understanding word meanings

Phonological awareness encompasses a range of skills related to the manipulation and recognition of sounds within spoken language. This includes the ability to identify phonemes, which are the smallest units of sound; manipulate syllables, which are larger units composed of phonemes; and recognize larger parts of spoken language such as words and phrases. Understanding word meanings, however, falls under semantics rather than phonological awareness. Semantics pertains to the meanings of words and how they combine to convey messages. While phonological awareness is crucial for reading development, as it helps individuals decode and process words, it does not directly address comprehension or the meanings of words themselves. Hence, recognizing that understanding word meanings is not part of phonological awareness helps clarify the broader context of language skills involved in literacy development.