Foundations of Reading

Research has proven that reading is a process requiring mastery of five foundational reading skills, which together, allow us to be successful, confident readers.

• Phonemic awareness - The ability to hear, decipher, and manipulate sounds in the English language. Phonemic awareness focuses on sounds only.

• Phonics - Deals with the sound - symbol relationship. Students understand that each letter is a symbol that represents a sound. Phonics focuses on letters and sounds.

• Fluency - Oral reading fluency is the ability to read with accuracy, speed, and proper expression.

• Vocabulary - Refers to words known to communicate effectively.

• Comprehension - Reading is built on the ability for students to understand what they read.