Which type of cues helps readers understand the meanings of words and phrases through symbols and sounds?

The correct answer is graphophonic cues, as they refer to the relationship between the letters and the sounds of a language. Graphophonic cues help readers decode words by allowing them to connect written symbols (letters and letter combinations) to their corresponding sounds. This process is fundamental in phonics, where the understanding of individual letters and phonemes combines to create the pronunciation and meaning of words. This type of cue is particularly important for early readers as they begin to learn to read and write, facilitating their ability to recognize and sound out new words they encounter.

The other types of cues mentioned serve different functions. Semantic cues involve understanding meaning through context and the relationship of words, while syntactic cues relate to the grammar and structure of sentences. Pragmatic cues focus on the social context of language use, including understanding implied meanings and using language appropriately in various situations. Each of these cues plays a role in literacy development, but for understanding meanings through symbols and sounds specifically, graphophonic cues are key.