Welcome to phonics! Phonics is a fundamental method for teaching reading and writing. It works by connecting sounds with letters or groups of letters. For example, when we see the letters C, A, and T, we can blend their sounds together to read the word CAT. This systematic approach helps children decode new words independently.
The first step in phonics is learning individual letter sounds. Each letter of the alphabet has its own sound. For example, the letter A makes the sound /a/ as in apple, and the letter B makes the sound /b/ as in ball. Students practice saying these sounds clearly and connecting them with the letter shapes they see.
The second step in phonics is blending sounds together. After children learn individual letter sounds, they practice combining them to read words. For example, they start by saying each sound slowly: /s/, /u/, /n/, then gradually speed up until they blend the sounds together to say the word 'sun'. This skill helps children decode new words independently.
The third step involves understanding letter combinations. Some letters work together to create new sounds. Digraphs are two letters that make one sound, like 'sh' in ship or 'ch' in chip. Trigraphs are three letters making one sound, like 'igh' in light. Learning these patterns helps children read more complex words accurately.
To summarize what we have learned about phonics: It is a systematic method that connects sounds with letters. Students begin by learning individual letter sounds, then practice blending these sounds to read words. Understanding letter patterns like digraphs helps with more complex words. Regular practice with appropriate books builds reading confidence and independence.