Phonics

Definition

• Relationships between the letters go written language and the sounds of spoken language

Why are phonics important?

• Leads to an understanding of the alphabetic principle
• The systematic and the predictable relationships between letter and sound
• Should be taught for 2 years
• Most important when taught early (K-1st)

Example

• Phone
• Foan

Systematic/Explicit

• Systematic: carefully selecting letter sounds that are recognized in a sequence.
• Explicit: teacher is given very specific way of teaching these relationships.