The rules of print that do not exist in spoken language, including spelling, capitalization, punctuation, and proper paragraphing, are called

• A. Mechanics
• B. Phonemic awareness
• C. Active listening
• D. Model

Answer: (A)

Mechanics refers to the rules that organize written language and don’t have a direct counterpart in speech: spelling, capitalization, punctuation, and paragraphing. These features shape how text looks on the page and help readers follow meaning, indicate where sentences start and end, and show how ideas are grouped. Phonemic awareness focuses on sounds in spoken language, not written conventions. Active listening is about understanding spoken language, and a model is simply an example used for instruction.