Phonics is a method of teaching reading in which you teach students the letters of the alphabet and their sounds first. Next, children are taught to blend the sounds phonetically to form words, and then to naturally build vocabulary, and increase fluency and comprehension. Children can begin reading within three to six months using the phonics method.
Synthetic phonics
Synthetic phonics emphasizes teaching individual sounds (phonemes) rather than just the alphabet letters.
Children are introduced to the 40 fundamental sounds of the English language, providing a strong foundation for reading.
Phases of Synthetic Phonics:
Sound Introduction:
Children learn the basic phonetic sounds, understanding the relationship between sounds and letters.
Blending Sounds:
Sounds are combined to form blends, enabling children to read simple words and syllables.
Word Formation:
Children progress to forming words by blending sounds together, enhancing their reading abilities.
Advantages of Synthetic Phonics:
Systematic Approach:
Provides a structured and systematic method of teaching phonics, ensuring consistent learning.
Enhanced Decoding Skills:
Equips children with strong decoding skills, enabling them to read unfamiliar words independently.
Improved Spelling Proficiency:
Enhances spelling abilities as children understand the phonetic patterns in words.
Analytic Phonics
Analytic phonics focuses on analyzing letter-sound relationships within whole words.
Unlike synthetic phonics, it emphasizes understanding the onset (initial consonant or consonant cluster) and the rime (vowel and following consonants) in words.