What does the concept of print primarily involve?

The concept of print primarily involves identifying letters and words, which encompasses the foundational skills necessary for reading. This includes recognizing the shapes of letters, understanding how letters form words, and developing an awareness of the left-to-right direction of text on a page. Mastery of these skills is essential for children as they begin to learn how to read, as it lays the groundwork for further literacy development.

In early literacy instruction, comprehension of print is crucial because it enables young readers to transition from recognizing individual letters to forming and recognizing words, which is a critical stage in reading development. This awareness also helps them understand that print carries meaning, which is fundamental to their overall reading experience. Thus, the concept of print serves as a foundational element in the gradual progression toward fluency and comprehension in reading.