Phonics

Phonics instruction is learning how letters correspond to sounds, and how to apply them in reading and spelling. Phonics instruction here at PD is provided systematically through Jolly Phonics and LTR. Systematic phonics instruction occurs when children receive explicit instruction about the relationships between letters and sounds. Children are taught how to use these relationships to read, usually in texts with controlled vocabulary.

Please see the links below for more ideas and activities for improving your child's phonics knowledge.

• This site has many games, all of which are leveled by grade. Practice letters, sight words, keyboarding skills and more through this interactive website. www.abcya.com

• Starfall is a wonderful site with many activities ranging from letter/sound recognition, to short stories, comics, and plays. Kids love Zac the Rat and all the other fun characters in these stories. www.starfall.com

• The PBS website features dozens of fun word and letter games with characters from Arthur, Word World, Caillou, Sesame Street and more. www.pbskids.org

• This website has a wealth of literacy instruction information, but for games and activities, click the 'Parent & After School Resources' drop-down menu near the top of the page to select the appropriate grade level. www.readwritethink.org

• Softschools.com has several links to fun games, but also has downloadable phonics flashcards to practice with.http://www.softschools.com/language_arts/phonics/

• This page features lots of fun games to practice phonics and sight words http://www.familylearning.org.uk/phonics_games.html

• Have fun with your favorite Dr. Seuss characters with games and stories on the Seussville website.