Phonemic ... or Phonic Ears, are the child’s ability to actually hear the sounds in a word. This is the first step in learning to read. Much of the new research says that teaching children thi
Phonemic Awareness, or Phonic Ears, are the child’s ability to actually hear the sounds in a word. This is the first step in learning to read. Much of the new research says that teaching children this skill can really help the child learn to read!
Let’s start growing those ears
Phonic ears is the ability to hear and manipulate sounds in words. Phonemic awareness is not phonics and it does not involve reading any words. This means that a three year old can learn to grow their phonic ears, just as easily as a six year old!
How to teach Phonemic Awareness Skills 1) Blending: What word am I trying to say? SsssssAaaaaaNnnnnnDdddd. 2) Segmentation (first sound only): What is the first sound in Run? 3) Segmentation (last sound only): What is the last sound in Sit? 4) Say it Fast (complete): Say the sounds for the word H . . . O . . . P. . . (Pause between each sound.) 5) Say letters, sound at a time: The letter “M” is eee . . . mmm. The letter “S” is eee . . . sss.
How to grow those phonic ears in Five Minutes a day
One great thing you can do to help your child, or students learn more about phonemic awareness is read stories outloud to them, but do it a little differently. One time on every page take a word that is 3 or 4 letters, and say it a part at a time. Look below for an example.
Let’s say you are reading a story about Sam, the cat. Here is what you will say: “Sam the cat was having a very good day. First his friend gave him M . . . I . . . L . . . K. What did the friend give Sam? (Child responds) Yes, MILK. Then (keep on reading.)” Important, you are saying the SOUNDS in the letter MILK, not the Letter Names.
Once this has become easy, start reading alphabet books with the child, but do each of the letters, one part at a time. You will notice that this will help your child learn the SOUNDS that each letter makes.
Once your child has learned these skills, s/he is ready to start learning to read! Start today! Teach your child to grow their phonic ears through these easy tips.
Sacha Luria-Smith has been recognized for her teaching success on National Public Radio and Disney radio. She has also taught middle school in Oakland, CA. She is the author ofthe website http://www.home-school-reading.com.
