The six keys to reading are often described as the essential elements that unlock a reader’s potential. These include Oral Language, which provides the verbal foundation for literacy, and Phonological Awareness, the understanding of sounds. The third key is Phonics, linking sounds to print. The fourth key is Vocabulary, ensuring the reader knows the meaning of the words they are decoding. Fluency is the fifth key, allowing for smooth and expressive reading that supports understanding. The final key is Comprehension, which is the actual “unlocking” of the message within the text. Some frameworks also include “Motivation” as a hidden key, as a reader’s desire to engage with the material often determines their level of persistence and ultimate success in learning.
