Which term refers to separating a word into units, syllables, onsets and rimes, or individual phonemes?

The correct term that refers to the process of breaking down a word into its constituent parts, such as units, syllables, onsets and rimes, or individual phonemes, is segmentation.

Segmentation is a crucial skill in language learning, particularly in the context of phonological awareness. It involves identifying and isolating the sounds within a word, which can enhance reading and spelling abilities. By segmenting words, learners can better understand how sounds combine to form words and can manipulate these sounds for various literacy skills.

This process is foundational for developing literacy as it supports the understanding of the structure of words, helping learners decode unfamiliar words through sound analysis. Therefore, segmentation plays a vital role in structured language education as it is a building block for reading fluency and comprehension.