Which of the following is NOT one of the five key components of effective reading instruction?

The correct answer is C, Mathematics, as it is indeed not one of the five key components of effective reading instruction. The primary focus of the five key components—phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—centers around the skills necessary for reading development.

Phonemic awareness involves the ability to hear and manipulate the sounds in spoken words, serving as a foundational skill for reading. Phonics teaches the relationship between letters and their corresponding sounds, which is essential for decoding words. Fluency refers to the ability to read with speed, accuracy, and proper expression, which helps to enhance comprehension.

Mathematics, while a crucial subject area in education, does not fit within the framework of effective reading instruction. Thus, distinguishing these components is key for educators when developing reading programs and strategies to enhance literacy among students.