What does the term "decoding" refer to in reading?

The term "decoding" in reading specifically refers to the process of translating written text into spoken words. This involves recognizing the letters in a word and understanding the sounds they correspond to, allowing readers to pronounce words correctly. Decoding is fundamental for reading fluency, as it enables readers to make sense of the text they are encountering, facilitating comprehension.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the definition of decoding. Using pictures to understand a story relates to visual literacy and comprehension strategies rather than decoding text. Ignoring unfamiliar words does not contribute to understanding the text or practicing reading skills. Summarizing text instead of reading it encompasses text comprehension and recall but does not involve the pronunciation or verbalization of written words. Therefore, the correct understanding of decoding is pivotal for developing effective reading skills.