There are two basic methods to learning to read; the whole language method, and the phonics method.
The whole language method of reading is believed to be a sort of natural ability that comes to a child eventually. Advocates believe that if a child has the proper exposure to the written word, the ability to read will come to them naturally, as the ability to walk and talk did.
Learning to read through phonics instruction has been the standard learning method for decades. This method teaches a systematic way of reading by learning the alphabetic code and how each letter is represented in speech.
The two methods have been a point of contention between the proponents of each; however, it is known that if one method only is practiced, children are deprived of significant opportunities.
Fortunately, most educators believe that phonics instruction is necessary early on in a child’s life. Whole language reading plays an important part once a child understands the basic concepts of phonics.
The whole language method of reading is believed to be a sort of natural ability that comes to a child eventually. Advocates believe that if a child has the proper exposure to the written word, the ability to read will come to them naturally, as the ability to walk and talk did.
Learning to read through phonics instruction has been the standard learning method for decades. This method teaches a systematic way of reading by learning the alphabetic code and how each letter is represented in speech.
The two methods have been a point of contention between the proponents of each; however, it is known that if one method only is practiced, children are deprived of significant opportunities.
Fortunately, most educators believe that phonics instruction is necessary early on in a child’s life. Whole language reading plays an important part once a child understands the basic concepts of phonics.
