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What defines sight words in the context of early literacy?

  1. Words exclusively found in textbooks

  2. Common words that follow regular spelling patterns

  3. Common words that have irregular spelling

  4. Vocabulary words specifically for advanced learners

The correct answer is: Common words that have irregular spelling

Sight words are defined as common words that have irregular spelling, meaning they do not follow typical phonetic rules and may not be easily decodable based on sound-letter correspondence. These words often appear frequently in texts, making it essential for early readers to recognize them instantly and efficiently to aid in reading fluency. Recognizing sight words allows students to focus on comprehension rather than decoding, thus enhancing their overall reading experience. Other definitions, such as words exclusively found in textbooks, common words that follow regular spelling patterns, or vocabulary specifically targeted at advanced learners, do not capture the essence of sight words. The ability to identify these challenging, high-frequency words quickly is crucial for young readers as they build foundational literacy skills.