Students in this phonics class should have a complete grasp on all consonant and short/long vowel sounds, be able to read long and short vowel simple words such as mad and hope, and be ready to progress to consonant blends. We will begin with a brief review of consonant and vowel sounds and words; however, this is primarily a review. Phonics is an integral part of reading progression in the early elementary grades. Learners will be introduced to consonant blends consisting of two letters in this first semester as well as sight words from the Dolch 220 word list. We will learn a new blend in most classes, practice words as well as a sentence corresponding with the blend and use the blend to spell basic words. We will also learn to write sentences and then a few simple sentences to make a short story. We will learn blends st, br, tr, dr, cr, gr, pr, fr, cl, bl, gl, fl, pl, sl, tw, sm, sw, sn, sp, sh, ch, tch, th, sc, sk, oy,and oi and will use the blends to assist in reading as well as spelling.  Learners will also be introduced to sight words in a methodical, fun way. Both phonics and sight word recognition are essential to beginning reading skills. The class will be generally be formatted with review of previous blends, introduction of the new blend with practice, a phonics game/activity and sight word practice followed by another game if time permits. This is the first semester of a full year of phonics and is intended for very advanced kindergarten learners, first grade learners and remedial second grade learners. Please let me know if you are unsure of your child's level and I will help you assess them.