Step 0: Preparing for the lesson
- This strategy is best used with small groups or individuals.
- Plan to do this daily for 5-10 minutes.
- Choose 1-3 patterns to practice in each lesson.
- Pick 4-6 words to teach that follow those patterns.
Step 1: Say the word
Step 2: Blend the sounds
- Have the students notice each unique sound in the word.
Step 3: Identify the number of sounds in the word
- If students struggle with this step, have them blend the word again until they can currently identify the correct number.
Step 4: Identify the individual sounds
- Ask what the first sound in the word is, what the second sound is, etc.
Step 5: Spell the word
- Make sure to have your students say the letters in the word, not the sounds.
Step 6: Blend and check the spelling
- Have the students point at, blend, and read the word aloud. Guide them in finding their mistakes (if they have any). If so, go back to earlier steps.
Step 7: Repeat
Why does this strategy work?
- Through this strategy, students practice phonetic spelling slowly and repeatedly. It helps them to develop phonemic awareness.
Visit the original source for a more detailed explanation of each step and suggestions to how to adapt this strategy to online and home learning.
