In the context of reading, what is prosody?

Prosody refers to the rhythm and pattern of speech, encompassing the elements of intonation, stress, and rhythm in spoken language. In reading, prosody is crucial as it reflects how well a reader can interpret and express text through vocal tone and pacing. It allows readers to convey meaning and emotion, guiding listeners through the text by emphasizing certain words or phrases, thereby enhancing comprehension and engagement with the material. By paying attention to the rhythm and patterns of speech, learners can facilitate better expression and understanding of what they read. This understanding is important, especially in fluent reading, where prosody aids in making sense of punctuation and the underlying meaning of sentences.