One effective way to teach children phonics and help them practice decoding words is through the use of decodable words and readers.
What are decodable words?
Decodable words are words that can be sounded out using the phonics skills that children have learned. They are typically used in early reading instruction to help children practice reading by sounding out words using the phonics skills they have learned. Decodable words are usually short, simple words that follow the phonics rules that children have been taught.
For example, if a child has learned the phonics rule that the letter “s” makes the /s/ sound, they can use this knowledge to decode the word “sat.” Similarly, if a child has learned that the letters “ch” make the /ch/ sound, they can use this knowledge to decode the word “chat.”
What are decodable readers?
Decodable readers are books that are specifically designed to help children learn to read by using phonics. They typically contain a collection of short, simple stories that are made up of only decodable words. Decodable readers are used in early reading instruction to help children practice reading by sounding out words using the phonics skills they have learned. The goal of using decodable readers is to help children develop the ability to read independently by building their phonics skills and fluency.
Decodable readers are often used in conjunction with other reading materials and activities, such as phonics worksheets and games, to provide a well-rounded reading instruction program.
Why should we use decodable words and readers?
Decodable words and readers are an important tool for helping children learn to read because they provide a structured and systematic way for children to practice reading words using the phonics skills they have learned. When children are first learning to read, it is important for them to have a strong foundation in phonics, and decodable words and readers provide a controlled environment for children to practice reading words that can be sounded out using the phonics skills they have learned.
This helps children build confidence and fluency as they learn to read and gives them the skills they need to tackle more complex, irregular words that cannot be sounded out using phonics rules (also known as sight words). In addition, decodable readers can be an engaging and enjoyable way for children to learn to read, as they often contain fun and interesting stories that are tailored to the phonics skills and interests of young readers.
In conclusion, decodable words and readers are an essential tool for early reading instruction. By providing a structured and systematic way for children to practice reading using phonics skills, we can help them develop the confidence and fluency they need to become independent readers. If you are a parent or teacher looking to support the reading development of young learners, consider incorporating decodable words and readers into your reading instruction program.
