Phonics, phonics, phonics. They are found throughout the KSSR curriculum. But what does it mean??? And how can we understand and teach them better?
Well, just like Bahasa Melayu has syllables that can be used to sound out words, English has the same in the form of phonics! The basic idea is to have children learn the sounds of the letters, then piece those sounds together to 'decode' (or unlock) the new words independently, without excessive assistance from their teacher. It's a basic building block of reading programmes throughout the Western world.
So, what other options for materials exist for phonics other than the KSSR Textbook and Workbook? Many! Below are a few links to get MTPs started on creating a thorough and engaging phonics library for pupils.
Starfall.com - interactive and engaging, the letter sounds are reinforced in exciting ways! Please look at this link, especially if you are unsure of the sounds the different letters make. If possible, include your young children when you look at it!
Toolsforeducators.com - this site provides models for teachers to make supplemental phonics worksheets that will correspond with the chapters in the KSSR Textbooks. Also, it's a good idea to have extra worksheets on hand (with different words) for faster learners.
MES English - an excellent resource for free games, worksheets, flashcards and other assorted materials guaranteed to make phonics lessons exciting and more memorable for pupils!
Loving2learn - another resource that allows for more variety in materials for lessons of all kinds!
This list is just a start for MTPs to begin to discover a larger world of English materials proven to aid in the instruction of phonics (among other things). Please discuss what you've found with your Mentor and other English teachers in your school. Happy hunting!
