The document discusses the five main stages of literacy development:
1) Emergent readers (ages 2-7) begin to understand concepts of print and connect text to meaning.
2) Early readers (ages 5-7) rely more on text than pictures and use word recognition strategies.
3) Transitional readers (ages 5-7) read fluently in phrases with expression.
4) Self-extending readers (ages 6-9) read independently across genres for knowledge and pleasure.
5) Advanced readers (ages 9+) have mastered reading comprehension and use strategies flexibly.