How to Teach Phonics
Children love to learn in a group environment. Though the right methodology is the only secret of teaching, there is a need for innovation. Kids also do not respond to a strict or overbearing atmosphere. With a bit of discipline, teaching phonics at the elementary level is really interesting for the teacher as well as the child. Phonics means the actual sound of each word. There has to be neutralization of pronunciation while speaking English. A person has an accent while speaking in English, because of the common use of his or her mother tongue. While a practiced effort is needed, phonics actually is the best way to learn to speak English.
Phonics needs to be taught with a lot of patience. Beginning with alphabets phonics can gradually be blended with other words and certainly can be used to read fluently. Writing and phonics too is a good idea. Teaching the alphabet A and also the lower case ‘a’ are not confusing if identified with an apple, astronaut or other words. Along side the teacher can use the rhythmic movement or use a phrase like, ‘ants are crawling up my hand – a-a-a’. There is a need to facial expression and tongue movement so that children catch the right sound.
Such kind of dramatization relieves the children of learning in a strict environment. The idea is to get them involved and surely phonics classes increase bonding between a teacher and student. The child is aware of the various inflexions, sound effects, lip movement and tongue placing over the palate which is very much essential for clearly talking. They are able to give each word a proper accent and decode the right blends in words. Certain times ‘r’ or ‘l’ is silent and other words like‘d’ can be dominating. Hence the correct way to speak English has to be imparted while teaching phonics.
There are good books which can be brought for teaching phonics. Worksheet activity is one way to teach the children. Stick wool, beads, pulses and other such items as you combine teaching phonics to toddlers. Another idea is also crayons and colors. Let the children dip the brush in water colors and it is fine to ignore the awry letters that they scribble. The point is to see that they are interested. Limiting sessions to one or two words is a good idea so that one can teach the children more words that will improve their vocabulary.
Pictures or actions representing the sound or alphabet are very much essential. For ‘ch’ show them chopsticks and combine a Noodle day in the class. The fun is unlimited and the fun way of learning is certainly appreciated. Games and activities go hand-in-hand while teaching kids. They are eager to know more about alphabets. The standing lines and sleeping lines is more interesting when done in a group activity. Developing motor skills is a prelude to improve the child’s concentration. Revision activities surely ensure correction.