The Four-Part Processing Model

The Four Part Processing Model for Word Recognition

The Four-Part Processing Model for word recognition is a simplified model that illustrates how the brain reads or recognizes words. It illustrates that there are four processes that are active in the reading brain including: phonological, orthographic, meaning, and context processors (Moats & Tolman, 2019). The model also provides evidence that instruction should occur for students to address all processors, so that as each processor is strengthened, all processors will work together. Scroll down to see the role of each processor as they work together for word recognition.

Listen as Dr. Carol Tolman explains the Four Part Processing Model for Word Recognition. (Video Length: 3:05)

Phonological Processor

Detects, recalls and understands (phonemes) that make up spoken words.
Controls the production of sounds and words in spoken language.

Orthographic Processor

Recognizes, stores and recalls the letters and combination of letters that we use to recognize written language.
Stores print information for retrieval to efficiently recognize and recall words for reading and spelling.

Meaning Processor

Interprets word meanings
Organizes words into meaning networks by:
- spelling patterns
- categories and concepts
- word relationships
- word meanings and associated meanings
- meaningful parts of words (morphemes) and roots.

Context Processor

Provides support to the meaning processor by interpreting words based on:
- language of a sentence
- experience or circumstances
- knowledge of a concept

For example:

The bolt of lightning hit the clocktower during the storm last night.

The word “bolt” has several meanings, however, in this example it means a shaft of lightning or thunderbolt.

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