What is the distinct characteristic of prosody in reading?

The distinct characteristic of prosody in reading is the ability to read with expression, intonation, and phrasing. Prosody encompasses the rhythm, stress, and intonation patterns that make reading sound more natural and convey meaning effectively. When a reader employs prosody, they enhance the text by adding emotional depth, emphasizing certain words or phrases, and facilitating comprehension through natural pauses and pacing. This aspect of reading is crucial for engaging with the text and for conveying the author's intended message, making it essential for both fluent reading and effective communication.

The other choices do not capture the essence of prosody. Reading quickly focuses solely on the speed of reading without attention to expression or meaning, while reading silently pertains to the absence of vocalization and does not involve intonation or phrasing. Reading for comprehension emphasizes understanding the text's content rather than the performance aspects that prosody highlights, such as how the text is presented aloud.