The gift of reading starts with oral language. The human brain is wired for speech, but there is no specific are of the brain dedicated to reading. Learning to read involves the creation of neural pathways between multiple areas of the brain. Phonological Awareness is not phonics instruction, though phonics falls under the umbrella of phonological awareness.
It was once thought that we read by recognizing whole words by "sight". The thought was that we read by seeing whole words as units. Neural science has proven this theory incorrect. Many districts continue to teach using a "sight word reading" approach. In truth, our brains process phonemes in given words "at the speed of sight". Mapping phonemes (sounds) to graphemes (symbols) is key in reading acquisition.
COMING SOON
Under Construction
Oral language develops naturally, we are prewired for it! Written language is a man-made construct and must be explicitly taught. It takes direct and explicit instruction to help students connect symbols to the sounds in their language. Follow the link to find tools for helping students connect their oral language to written symbols.
Writing is a complex skill that requires sophisticated fine motor skills. The complex nature of writing requires explicit instruction. Students need to be taught the most effective way to form letters. When students have efficient pathways for letter formation, writing becomes easier. Writing pathways must be established early in children's literacy journey.
Decodable texts can be challenging to find. This page offers links to a variety of pages that provide levelled texts. Levelled texts support systematic instruction and provide opportunities for students to practice learned skills.
SYLLABLES
Link coming soon: Knowledge of the six syllable types is important information that unlocks another level of understanding in the reading process.
DECODING
Link coming soon: Decoding is solving information presented with written symbols. In order to decode, students must have automatic recognition of symbols (letters) and their corresponding sounds. Students need to use their understanding of phonology, spelling generalizations and language structure in order to decode effectively.
ENCODING
Link coming soon: Encoding is the reverse of decoding. When encoding, students are transferring the sounds of spoken language into written code. Students need to use their understanding of phonology, spelling generalizations and language structure in order to encode effectively.
When first starting out on the science of reading journey, it can be hard to know where to source resources and programs. This is a place to find both assessments, developmental continuum. Assessment is an essential component of structured and systematic instruction.
There is so much to learn about reading instruction and intervention. These podcasts will expand your knowledge of reading instruction whether you are an educator, parent or caregiver. The beauty of podcasts is that you can learn while driving, washing dishes or going for a walk.
The internet is an excellent source of information, but it can be hard to know where to start when looking for answers. This link provides a curated list of sites with information from reputable sources.