Phonics

= **﻿Phonics ** =

**What is phonics? **
Phonics is the system of relationships between letters and sounds in a language. Knowledge of phonics is a critical component in learning to read and spell. Written language can be compared to a code. Knowing the sounds of letters and letter combinations enables a child to decode words as he/she reads. This knowledge also assists a child with writing. Understanding of the sound/symbol relationship helps children to know what letters to use when they are writing (encoding). === **The National Reading Panel determined that the research indicates that phonics is an essential ingredient in beginning reading instruction and found that: ** ===
 * Systematic and explicit phonics instruction--phonics instruction that is direct and follows a particular sequence--is more effective than phonics instruction that is not systematic or no phonics instruction at all.
 * Systematic, explicit phonics instruction is most effective when it begins in kindergarten or first grade.
 * Systematic, explicit phonics instruction improves children's word recognition, spelling, and reading comprehension skills.
 * Systematic, explicit phonics instruction benefits all children, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
 * Systematic, explicit phonics instruction most benefits children who are having difficulty learning to read.
 * Phonics instruction is only one part of a complete reading program for beginning readers. Effective beginning reading programs should also emphasize reading fluency, vocabulary development, and text comprehension.

**Online Resources:**
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 * Fundations activities for your SmartBoard:** Longwood Central School District teachers have created activites and materials to support your Fundations lessons and practice identifying/sorting initial sounds. Great for Kindergarten and grade 1.

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 * Free Printable Reading Games:** Adrian Bruce's website is loaded with free printable phonics and word games. This is a great resource and worth spending time looking around!

[|FCRR Student Center Activity Seach Tool]
 * Flordia Center for Reading Research:** New and improved search engine gives you access to hundreds of engaging centers that you can make and use with your students.

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 * Student Websites:** Need ideas for student websites?