Mississippi Foundations of Reading Practice Test

What is the definition of print awareness?

1. An understanding of different writing styles

2. Awareness of the purposes and functions of written language

3. The ability to read quickly and accurately

4. Knowledge of punctuation rules

The correct answer is: Awareness of the purposes and functions of written language

Print awareness refers to the recognition and understanding of the purposes and functions of written language. This foundational skill indicates a child's ability to recognize that print carries meaning, understand that text is read from left to right (in languages that use this orientation), and identify different elements of print, such as letters, words, and sentences. This awareness is essential for early literacy development, as it lays the groundwork for reading and writing skills. The other options focus on specific aspects of literacy or writing rather than the broader concept of print awareness. Understanding different writing styles gravitates more toward stylistic analysis and does not encompass the foundational recognition of print's function. The ability to read quickly and accurately pertains to reading fluency, which builds upon print awareness rather than defining it. Lastly, knowledge of punctuation rules is a component of writing mechanics and comprehension but does not encapsulate the general understanding of print as a medium for communication.