Which of the following sounds is considered more advantageous for beginning readers to know?

The sound /m/ is considered more advantageous for beginning readers to know due to its common usage and simplicity in articulation. Phonemes that are easily recognizable and frequently appear in various words provide a strong foundation for early literacy development.

The /m/ sound is found in many words that children encounter in their early reading experiences, such as "man," "mom," and "map," making it a familiar sound for young learners. This high frequency enhances letter-sound correspondence, helping children develop phonemic awareness and aiding their ability to decode new words.

In contrast, the other options—/x/, /q/, and /z/—are less commonly found at the beginning of words that children typically learn when they first start reading. Sounds that are more prevalent, like /m/, allow for a more efficient and productive approach to building vocabulary and confidence in reading. Thus, knowing the sound /m/ supports effective reading instruction for beginners.