What does the term 'word knowledge' encompass?

• A. The ability to read rapidly without stopping.
• B. The ability to spell correctly in isolation.
• C. Memory for word spellings.
• D. Understanding vocabulary, word meanings, and usage.

Answer: (D)

Word knowledge is the understanding of vocabulary—the meanings of words, their nuances, and how they’re used in different contexts. It includes recognizing multiple meanings, connotations, and how a word functions in a sentence, as well as how it relates to other words.

That’s why this option fits best: it captures what it means to know a word beyond just how it’s spelled or how fast you can read. The other ideas describe related skills—reading speed reflects fluency, while spelling memory focuses on orthography rather than meaning or usage.