Phonemes are the smallest units of sound in spoken language.  For example, the word "cat" has three phonemes: /k/ /a/ /t/.

Graphemes are the written representation of phonemes.  They can be single letters (like 'a' or 'b') or letter combinations (like 'sh' or 'th').

Understanding graphemes allows students to decode words when reading and encode them when writing.

Phonics instruction teaches students the rules and patterns for connecting sounds to letters.

Students learn how to blend graphemes together to read words (decoding) and segment words into phonemes for spelling (encoding).

Effective phonics instruction is systematic and explicit, progressing from simple to complex rules.

It helps students become proficient readers by enabling them to decode unfamiliar words accurately.

Phonics skills are applied during reading, writing, and spelling activities.

Students use their knowledge of phonics to decode words, recognize sight words, and improve overall reading fluency.