Emergent literacy theory holds that reading and writing development occur in which pattern?

• A. They Develop Through a Single, Rapid Phase
• B. They Develop in Cycles with Feedback
• C. They Develop in Successive Stages
• D. They Do Not Require Instruction

Answer: (C)

Emergent literacy theory describes reading and writing as developing through successive stages, each building on what came before. Children start with exposure to language and print—sharing books, talking, scribbling, and interacting with adults who name letters and sounds. As they engage, they gradually master concepts about print, recognize letters, hear and manipulate sounds, and begin to connect sounds with symbols. Each stage creates the foundation for the next, and active literacy experiences—guided instruction, meaningful reading, and writing opportunities—help them progress. Because the trajectory is progressive and cumulative, with skills accumulating over time rather than appearing in one quick jump, the pattern fits developing in successive stages.