Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) Practice Test

Which of the following correctly represents phoneme isolation activity?

1. Identifying rhyme in poems

2. Determining the sound in the middle of a word

3. Breaking down syllables into rimes

4. Identifying onset sounds only

The correct answer is: Determining the sound in the middle of a word

Phoneme isolation involves recognizing and identifying individual sounds within words. The correct choice reflects an activity where a learner determines the sound in the middle of a word, which is a clear example of isolating a specific phoneme. In this case, it requires the learner to focus on a single sound within a word, showcasing their ability to distinguish between different phonemes and understand the structure of language at a fundamental level. The other options do not accurately represent phoneme isolation activities. Identifying rhyme in poems relates more to phonological awareness and the recognition of sound patterns rather than isolating specific phonemes. Breaking down syllables into rimes focuses on larger units of sound rather than the individual phonemes. Lastly, identifying onset sounds only concentrates on the initial sounds of words and does not encompass the isolation of phonemes from different positions within words. Thus, the activity in the correct answer specifically targets phoneme isolation by focusing on the middle sound, making it representative of that phonemic skill.