What does the term "orthography" refer to?

The term "orthography" specifically refers to the conventional spelling system of a language. It encompasses the rules and conventions that govern how words are spelled within a particular language. This includes various elements such as the correct arrangement of letters, the use of diacritics, and punctuation, all of which contribute to the standardized representation of words in written form.

Understanding orthography is crucial for literacy development, as it provides learners with the framework necessary to decode and encode written text accurately. Children who grasp the principles of orthography can better anticipate spelling patterns, enhancing their reading and writing proficiency.

The other options relate to different aspects of language and literacy but do not define orthography. For instance, comparing similar words pertains more to vocabulary development. Letter-sound correspondence focuses on phonics, while the use of roots and affixes is concerned with morphological aspects of words. Each of these elements is important in learning to read and write, but they do not capture the full meaning of orthography.