What must be true for a beginner reader to understand the meaning of a word they have just decoded?

For a beginner reader to understand the meaning of a word they have just decoded, it is essential that the word is already part of the reader's oral vocabulary. When a reader encounters a word they have decoded, their ability to grasp its meaning is significantly influenced by their prior knowledge and familiarity with that word in spoken language. If a reader has already heard and used the word in conversation, they can more effectively connect the new written form of the word to its known meaning.

This connection facilitates comprehension, as the reader can draw on their experiences and understanding associated with the word rather than trying to construct meaning from scratch. Recognizing and understanding the nuances of a word through context and usage further reinforces learning. Understanding words within the context of their spoken use is critical to vocabulary development in early readers, making this choice the most accurate representation of what is necessary for comprehension.