A 5th-grade teacher notices a struggling reader has difficulty with unfamiliar multi-syllable words. What should the teacher plan?

The focus on activities that promote the identification of component syllables in longer words is particularly effective for addressing the needs of a struggling reader who has difficulty with unfamiliar multi-syllable words. Understanding syllabication allows students to break down complex words into manageable parts, making it easier for them to decode and pronounce these words. This skill not only aids in reading fluency but also enhances their ability to tackle new vocabulary independently.

Engaging in syllable identification helps students develop phonological awareness, which is essential for reading proficiency. By learning how to segment words into syllables, students can improve their decoding strategies, thus building confidence in their reading abilities. This approach directly addresses the specific challenge the student is facing with multi-syllable words.

Other options like activities aimed at enhancing reading speed or improving comprehension skills may not directly address the root issue of decoding multi-syllable words. Similarly, while vocabulary acquisition is crucial, without the foundational skill of breaking down words into syllables, the student may still struggle with unfamiliar terms. Therefore, focusing on syllable identification is the most beneficial approach for this particular reading challenge.