Phonological awareness (PA) is the ability to analyze and manipulate the phonological structure of spoken words, developing in preschool and crucial for pronunciation and literacy. This project examined the PA competencies of 38 monolingual, typically developing German preschool children shortly before school entry. The pilot study aimed to create a reliable and comprehensive PA test battery for German preschoolers and to understand the average PA skills of German-speaking children near school enrollment. Both objectives were successfully met, with findings discussed in terms of test reliability, average PA performance, and the impact of letter knowledge on PA scores. Phonologische Bewusstheit (PhB) refers to the ability to perceive and analyze the phonological structure of spoken words. This complex skill begins developing in preschool and is significant for pronunciation and reading-writing abilities. The project investigated the PhB skills of 38 German-speaking, typically developing children shortly before they start school. The study aimed to advance the development of a reliable PhB test battery and to comprehensively assess the PhB skills of these children just before enrollment. Overall, both goals were achieved, and the results are discussed regarding test reliability, average PhB skills, and the influence of letter knowledge on PhB outcomes.
