What is the difference between ‘a blend’ (‘blend’ as a noun) and ‘to blend’ (as a verb)? Now that most schools are getting used to using synthetic phonics programmes, some old terms are being dropped and new terms are introduced. So, how do we now use the word ‘blend’: as a noun or a verb?
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Are ‘tricky’ words and high-frequency words the same?
These days, we hear a lot about ‘tricky’ words, phonically ‘irregular’ words, ‘sight’ words and ‘high-frequency’ words. Do all these terms mean the same thing?
Read MoreWhy the ‘A, B, C’ song is not helpful to beginner readers
Many young children learn to sing the ‘A, B, C’ song in nursery or at home. This song teaches them the names and the order of the letters of the alphabet. It’s a great way to store the alphabetic order of letters in our long-term memories. I still use the alphabet song when using a […]
Read MoreHow to choose a good phonics reading scheme
If you’re thinking of using a phonics reading scheme of decodable books, you may be wondering how to choose one. Here are some questions you should be asking.
Read MoreHow to split a multi-syllable word
There are a number of ways to split a multi-syllabic word. It really depends on your approach; there are no hard-and-fast rules. Here are a number of ways to go about it.
Read MoreWhat are decodable books?
Many people have preconceived ideas about decodable books. Some believe they are intended to compete with ‘real’ children’s literature. In fact, decodable books have unique purposes of their own.
Read MoreWhy we need to teach children how to split multisyllabic words
Most words in the English language have more than one syllable, and knowing how to split them up is an important skill children need to learn. In the past, phonics programmes have not put enough emphasis on this skill. Why is it important?
Read MoreTeaching high-frequency words and phonics – two conflicting approaches?
Wouldn’t it be great if we could teach those high-frequency words strictly within the phonic progression of our programme?
Read More8 tips for reading decodable books with beginners
Decoding can be very laborious for the beginner reader. Here are a few tips that can make the experience successful and rewarding.
Read More7 fun activities using decodable books
Now that decodable reading books are being used alongside phonics programmes, there are lots of ways to use them to develop literacy.
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