Which of the following describes a key aspect of phonics instruction?

The correct choice emphasizes the systematic instruction of letter-sound relationships, which is fundamental to effective phonics instruction. Phonics teaches students the connections between letters (or groups of letters) and the sounds they represent. This systematic approach helps learners decode new words, build their reading skills, and develop a foundational understanding of how written language operates. A structured sequence in phonics instruction—where students gradually learn more complex letter-sound correspondences—enables them to apply these skills not just in isolated practice but in fluent reading and writing tasks. By focusing on structured and systematic practices, educators ensure that students have a coherent framework to understand and utilize language more effectively.