What is the relationship between phonemes and graphemes according to phonics?

The relationship between phonemes and graphemes is characterized by a predictable correspondence, which is what makes the correct answer accurate. Phonemes are the individual sounds in spoken language, while graphemes are the letters or letter combinations that represent those sounds in written form. For instance, the phoneme /k/ can be represented by different graphemes such as 'c', 'k', or 'ck' in various words.

This predictable relationship is foundational in phonics instruction, as it helps learners decode words by relating sounds to their corresponding letters. The consistent patterns and rules that exist enable students to understand how to sound out unfamiliar words based on their spelling, contributing to their reading development.

In contrast, the incorrect answers imply misunderstandings of these concepts. Claiming that they are completely unrelated overlooks the essential link that phonics teaches. Saying phonemes and graphemes are the same disregards their distinct roles in language. Lastly, the notion that phonemes are larger than graphemes conflates the levels of sound and written representation, as phonemes exist at the sound level, while graphemes operate at the written level. Therefore, the predictable relationship is key in phonics education.