Both decoding and encoding skills are needed to build a foundation in reading. Decoding is the process of translating written speech into verbal speech sounds by applying knowledge of letter-sound correspondences. It is the ability to recognize letters, apply their associated sounds, and blend sounds to form words. Encoding is the process of using letter-sound knowledge to write or spell words. Students must understand the various spelling patterns and rules of the Spanish language to correctly construct words in their written products. It is important that students demonstrate their knowledge by applying these rules consistently instead of using invented spelling because they may unknowingly write a real word they did not intend, causing reader confusion.

Students are expected to correctly use words with common prefixes and suffixes in their writing. Using common prefixes and suffixes helps students increase their vocabulary and express their ideas in a more concise manner. For example, instead of writing, La maestra me dijo que tenía que volver a leer el libro, they could use the prefix re- to write, La maestra me dijo que tenía que releer el libro; or instead of writing Mi familia compra el pan en la tienda donde venden panes, they could use the suffix -ería to write, Mi familia compra el pan en la panadería.