🌟  Instruction follows the Phono-Graphix method for teaching reading and spelling,  developed with students with Dyslexia in mind. The Phono-Graphix method is very similar to Orton-Gillingham and is based on the Science of Reading.

🚀 This class is appropriate for beginning first-graders and ESL students at CEFR levels A1-A2.

🤓 Research shows that repetitive practice with new skills helps us learn information faster and retain it longer. Practice sessions should be spread out over a week or more to be most effective. That's why this class has three weekly meetings to ensure that the words are learned and retained long-term. 

🌟 This class meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays each week. Due to the nature of the weekly activities, it is best to start this class on a Monday.

📝 Students will be assigned a weekly spelling list of 10 words at the beginning of each week. During the live classes, we will discuss patterns in the words and spelling rules as they apply. A list of 10 words will be provided, as well as 2 bonus words to meet the needs of a wide range of skill levels. 

📝 Students will be expected to participate by writing the spelling words as modeled and trying different ways to study the words using colors and shapes. We will also discuss proper usage and share creative work. 

🚧 Keep in mind that the spelling rules only apply to about 70% of English words. We will discuss the spelling rules as they apply but focus heavily on spelling patterns, the sounds in the words, and study skills to master the words' spelling.

📝 One of the weekly assignments is to use the spelling words in sentences. Students may share their creative sentences on the classroom page or in a message to the teacher for feedback.

📝 Homework assignments will be given. A worksheet packet is provided after the first class meeting. The weekly spelling list will be sent out on the morning of the live meeting at 6 am Central time.

📝 Students can expect a low-pressure spelling test during our Friday class period. Each week a new list will be assigned. 

👀 Learners will need to know most of the sounds of the letters. There are 24 different lists in the program. Each week focuses on a different spelling pattern or sound.

Week of Sep. 9th: Words with Short A
Week of Sep. 16th: Words with Short E
Week of Sep. 23: Words with Short I
Week of Sep. 30th: Words with Short O
Week of Oct. 7th: Words with Short and Long U
Week of Oct. 14th: Words with Long A