Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.
What is phonemic awareness?
Phonemic awareness is the ability to segment (break apart) and manipulate the sounds of oral language. It is not the same as phonics, which involves knowing how written letters relate to spoken sounds. Research has shown that a childs awareness of the sounds and sound parts of spoken words is a strong predictor of his or her later success in learning to read. Parents can encourage play with spoken language using nursery rhymes, riddles, songs, poems, and read-aloud books.Back to Top
Phonemic awareness is the ability to segment (break apart) and manipulate the sounds of oral language. It is not the same as phonics, which involves knowing how written letters relate to spoken sounds. Research has shown that a childs awareness of the sounds and sound parts of spoken words is a strong predictor of his or her later success in learning to read. Parents can encourage play with spoken language using nursery rhymes, riddles, songs, poems, and read-aloud books.
Why teach vocabulary?
Vocabulary is one of the five pillars of reading comprehension as stated in No Child Left Behind legislation. Reading comprehension depends upon the meaning readers give words. The more vocabulary words students know, the better they are able to comprehend. A large vocabulary opens students up to a wider range of reading materials. A rich vocabulary also improves students ability to communicate through speaking, listening, and writing.Back to Top
Vocabulary is one of the five pillars of reading comprehension as stated in No Child Left Behind legislation. Reading comprehension depends upon the meaning readers give words. The more vocabulary words students know, the better they are able to comprehend. A large vocabulary opens students up to a wider range of reading materials. A rich vocabulary also improves students ability to communicate through speaking, listening, and writing.
What is reading fluency?
Fluency refers to a student's speed, smoothness, and ease of oral reading. Fluent readers read more quickly and smoothly, allowing them to focus on comprehension. Fluent readers gain more meaning from the text they read. Because fluency leads to comprehension, fluent readers enjoy reading more than students who devote all their energy to sounding out words. The majority of books students read outside of school should be at their INDEPENDENT reading level.Back to Top
Fluency refers to a student's speed, smoothness, and ease of oral reading. Fluent readers read more quickly and smoothly, allowing them to focus on comprehension. Fluent readers gain more meaning from the text they read. Because fluency leads to comprehension, fluent readers enjoy reading more than students who devote all their energy to sounding out words. The majority of books students read outside of school should be at their INDEPENDENT reading level.