What is print awareness?

Print awareness refers to the understanding that written language carries meaning and is represented by specific marks on a page. This concept encompasses recognizing that the print has a function and is used for communication. Children with good print awareness understand that words are composed of letters and that there is a set structure to sentences. They begin to notice the differences between letters, words, and sentences, leading to an increased interest in reading and writing.

While knowledge of the alphabet and story comprehension are important components of literacy development, they do not encompass the broader concept of print awareness. Print awareness focuses specifically on the recognition of print as a form of communication, distinguishing it as a foundational skill in early literacy.