How to Teach Phonics to Elementary Children

Phonics is a method used to teach children to read.

Phonics is a teaching method used to help children learn to read. Phonics breaks down words into individual sounds and syllables and shows children how each sound fits together to make up a word. Children taught with phonics must learn the different vowel sounds, consonants and regular rules of English grammar. Teachers usually cover phonics in the early elementary years while children are still learning to read.

Things You'll Need

• Worksheets
• Pens
• Internet access

Instructions

1. Practice the letters of the alphabet with each child. While most elementary-aged children should already know the letters of the alphabet and the order they go in, some children lack this basic skill. Practice the letters by singing "The Alphabet Song" and through reciting the letters of the alphabet each day. Have each child practice writing the letters in order each day.

2. Read to the children, and practice sounding out each word. Even if a child already knows a word, practice sounding out each syllable very slowly. Ask the children to sound the words out along with you. This task helps the children learn to identify different sounds.

3. Explain the difference between short vowel sounds and long vowel sounds. Although vowel letters do not indicate this difference, teach students to pronounce each vowel differently based on the word. Explain to the children that some words call for them to pronounce the letter "a" as a short vowel, like in the word "apple," while other times, they should pronounce them as a long vowel, like in the word "ate."

4. Use phonics worksheets to reinforce the letter sounds with each child. Students can use phonics worksheets alone or in conjunction with regular class lessons. Each child should have a pencil to write on the page and will practice writing each letter and sound, as well as complete small problems to encourage phonics memorization.

5. Play online games with the children. Educational websites designed to teach phonics have online games and activities to promote learning in a fun, non-threatening and non-pressured environment. Children work at their own pace while having a fun time.

References

• Scholastic: Teach With Phonics Skills Chart
• A to Z Phonics: Vowel Sounds
• Star Fall: Learn to Read With Phonics
• National Institute of Child Health and Human Development: Phonics and Teaching Reading

Resources

• Succeed to Read: Phonics