Every English Language Learner should be aware of and able to benefit from Reading First. This article will show you considerations and recommendations that should help teachers best use Reading First for their ELLs.

Phonics

This involves understanding the existence of a predictable relationship between graphemes and phonemes. Readers use this relationship to identify familiar words and differentiate unfamiliar ones.

Phonic instructions help teach reading, which emphasizes the understanding of how letters correspond to sound. It also shows how this can be used in spelling and reading. The ultimate goal is to help students understand a predictable and systematic relationship between spoken words and letters.

Phonemic Awareness

These are the smallest units that make up spoken language. The English language has 41 phonemes that all come together to create words and syllables. For instance, the word “stop” is made up of four distinct phonemes (S-T-O-P), but “chop” has only three (CH-O-P). 

The ability to identify and use the phonemes in spoken words is referred to as phonemic awareness. It also entails the comprehension of the fact that sounds from spoken language all combine to form words.

Vocabulary Development

This is the knowledge gained from stored information about the pronunciations and meanings of words required for communication. Vocabulary development is vital for reading. When students see a word and pronounce it, they try to make sense out of the word based on what they understand. A reader may not comprehend the text’s content unless they understand what most of the words mean. 

Reading Fluency

Reading fluency refers to the ability of a person to read words quickly and with accuracy. Fluent readers are often able to comprehend and recognize words at the same time. Reading comprehension depends greatly upon reading fluency. If children read aloud with accuracy, speed, and correct expression, they can better understand and remember the text.

There are two distinct instructional approaches used with reading fluency. The first, which is independent silent reading, seeks to encourage the student to read quietly on their own with as little feedback and guidance as possible. The second involves guided repeated oral reading. This helps the student read words and passages out loud using feedback and guidance from the teacher. 

Reading Comprehension Strategies

This involves the combination of all reading skills that are aimed at helping students learn to read. The goal is mastery of the mentioned skills to help with comprehension. 

Concluding Thoughts

Now that you know the five reading components, putting them into practice should be the next goal. English Language Learners who seek to master the art of spoken and written English need to grasp each concept.