Phonics 101

What is Phonics?

Phonics is one of the five foundational pillars of reading. By definition, phonics is the method of teaching the relationship between the sounds of speech (spoken language) and alphabetical letters (written language).

Through effective phonics instruction, children learn how to read and write.

All children deserve the literacy skills they need to achieve success. Literacy is a powerful ability that equips us to learn, share ideas, understand important information, and navigate the world. All these skills are rooted in phonics.

Want to learn more about the wonders and methods of phonics? You’re in the right place. 

Learn Phonics

Bionic Reading: Y/N?

Bionic Reading: Y/N?

Tech + nature – sounds like the future, right?  In recent years, a new reading method has captured attention across social media and educational technology platforms. Called “bionic reading,” this…

Phonics and the Literacy Crisis: America’s Reading Challenge

Phonics and the Literacy Crisis: America’s Reading Challenge

The statistics are sobering: 66% of American fourth graders are failing to meet proficiency levels in reading, with even more alarming rates among minority students. For Black fourth graders, this…

Accessible Literacy Learning (ALL) App Review

Accessible Literacy Learning (ALL) App Review

Empowering Nonverbal Learners with Phonics and Reading Skills Are you curious about other literacy apps that may be a good match for your child? Check out additional expert reviews at…

How Adult Literacy Shapes Children’s Learning

How Adult Literacy Shapes Children’s Learning

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 43 million adults in the U.S. read at or below a third-grade level. Low literacy in adults is linked to various social…

Digraphs and Trigraphs: A Parent’s Guide

Digraphs and Trigraphs: A Parent’s Guide

Is your child starting to read words with letter combinations like ‘sh’ or ‘ch’? Congratulations—you’re entering the exciting world of digraphs and trigraphs! While these terms might sound technical, they’re…

How to Find a Phonics Tutor: Tips for Parents

How to Find a Phonics Tutor: Tips for Parents

Phonics is a major aspect of your child’s early education. It equips them with the skills they need to read, write, and learn. Foundational skills like decoding, vocabulary, and reading…

Sound Beginnings App Review

Sound Beginnings App Review

A Simple Approach to Phoneme Isolation Check out the other articles at phonics.org to see how other literacy apps measure up.  Continue reading this article to learn more about the…

Words With the Schwa Sound & How to Teach It

Words With the Schwa Sound & How to Teach It

The schwa sound is an essential concept in phonics instruction. However, it can be challenging for both teachers and students. As the most common vowel sound in English, mastering the…

Read With Phonics Games – App Review

Read With Phonics Games – App Review

A Simple and Playful Phonics Experience There are tons of phonics reviews at phonics.org! Check them out to become more informed about educational options for your student or child.  Continue…

Phonics and Handwriting: Make It Fun!

Phonics and Handwriting: Make It Fun!

Phonics and handwriting are closely intertwined. Because phonics is how children learn to read and write, handwriting is an inevitable skill that learners must develop in order to build a…