Automaticity in reading refers to:

• A. The ability to read quickly
• B. The ability to comprehend complex texts
• C. The ability to read a word without thinking
• D. The capacity to decode unfamiliar words

Answer: (C)

Automaticity in reading is defined as the ability to recognize words and process reading material without the need for conscious thought, allowing the reader to focus more on comprehension rather than decoding each word. When reading becomes automatic, it transforms into a fluent skill, enabling the reader to engage with the text at a deeper level. This process is vital for developing reading fluency, as it allows readers to maintain speed while ensuring they can understand the material.

The other options touch on related skills but do not capture the essence of automaticity specifically. Reading quickly refers to speed but does not inherently address the automatic processing of words. Comprehending complex texts is critical for effective reading, yet it hinges on prior skills rather than the automatic recognition of words. Lastly, decoding unfamiliar words involves active engagement with the text rather than the effortless recognition that characterizes automaticity. Thus, the primary feature of automaticity is the ability to read a word without conscious thought, enabling fluent and effective reading.