In reading, what does prosody refer to?

Prosody refers to the rhythmic and melodic aspects of spoken language, which includes expressiveness, phrasing, timing, and intonation. This aspect of reading is critical because it encompasses how a reader delivers a text aloud, affecting the meaning and emotional tone conveyed. Effective prosody includes appropriate pitch changes, pauses, and emphasis that help bring the text to life and enhance comprehension for the listener. For instance, using a varied tone can help distinguish between dialogue and narrative, while proper pacing can clarify meaning and maintain listener interest.

Other choices focus on different aspects of reading. Vocabulary knowledge is about understanding and using language effectively, which supports comprehension but does not encompass the delivery of the text. Word recognition and spelling skills pertain to the ability to accurately recognize and spell words, essential for becoming a fluent reader, but again, they do not directly involve the expressive elements of reading aloud. Comprehension and analysis of text relate to understanding the content and structure of what is read, rather than how it is read. Thus, the correct answer highlights the performance elements crucial for effective oral reading.