Module 5: Reading Reflection

Where does phonics instruction fit within a comprehensive literacy program?

As an educator, it is important to provide multiple opportunities to teach reading in a comprehensive literacy program. Through whole-class instruction, guided reading instruction, individual instruction, and in some cases through tutoring, phonics instruction is important to include when teaching reading. Weaver explains, “…a comprehensive classroom literacy program is absolutely crucial as the major form of organization and instruction” (Weaver 277).  Because learning to read and phonemic awareness facilitate each other, it is important to include both in a balanced reading instructional approach as part of a comprehensive literacy program.  

When and how would you teach phonics?

There are multiple opportunities and settings to teach phonics throughout the day as part of your reading program.  Weaver models how phonics instruction can be part of a shared book experience. When students are exposed to phonics in this setting, they can easily break down letter-sound relationships, recognize letters and letter clusters, and use letter-sound knowledge along with prior knowledge to understand how to read (283).  It is important to expose students to phonics in a variety of ways.  Weaver explains, “Meanwhile, suffice it to say that strategies and skills are often taught through mini-lessons, during various aspects of reading workshop, and within whole-class, small-group, and individual settings” (286).  As an educator, it is important to provide multiple opportunities throughout the day for students to engage in phonics instruction as part of a comprehensive literacy approach.