What does phonics instruction primarily teach?

Phonics instruction primarily teaches the relationship between letters and the sounds they represent. This foundational aspect of literacy enables students to decode words, which is crucial for reading proficiency. Understanding the sounds associated with specific letters and combinations allows learners to blend sounds into words, aiding in both reading fluency and comprehension.

Phonics helps students to develop their ability to sound out unfamiliar words and promotes skilled reading by building a strong connection between written language and its corresponding sounds. This approach empowers learners to tackle new vocabulary independently and supports their overall literacy development as they progress through different reading levels.