Why is teaching Phonics important?

Why is teaching Phonics important? by Miss Ellie

As you enter a classroom in Early Years or Key Stage 1, you can see the engagement and enthusiasm of children learning new sounds and words. The children are focused and applying their new sound of the day through different writing and reading activities. At Nadeen School, we use the Little Wandle programme for daily phonics and reading development. This programme has led to excellent progress among students, who engage in fun and rewarding activities with various resources from the programme. The programme ensures consistency across all year groups, providing a cohesive and effective approach to teaching phonics.

 

If a child memorises 10 words, the child can only read 10 words. But if a child learns 10 sounds, the child will be able to read 350 three sound words, 4,320 four sound words, and 21,650 five sound words.

– by Dr Martin Kozloff, 2002

 

 

Why do we teach phonics? 

We teach phonics because it provides a foundational understanding of how to read and write. Neurological research has identified an area of the brain dedicated to the process of reading, which Dehaene calls ‘the letterbox’. Phonics is an important first step in a child’s education journey, laying the groundwork for literacy skills. The Little Wandle programme ensures that all children can experience success through a positive pedagogy, engaging them actively in the learning process. As we continue to use the new programme at Nadeen school, we carry on emphasising a love of reading for all children.

 

I like reading new books at school. I know lots of sounds and can read words on my own.

– by Maissa, aged 5, enjoying reading new books during the Little Wandle reading sessions