English is a pattern-based language. Words are constructed from letters of the alphabet, with each of the letters representing one or more sound patterns. The behavior of letters and letter combinations is actually quite consistent and reliable, and this means that students who learn the sound and spelling patterns have the tools to read and spell. In all there are 26 alphabet letters, less than 50 sound patterns, and some 250 spelling patterns. The beauty of knowing patterns is that it eliminates the need to memorize words one-by-one and truly makes every word of English accessible.
This reading curriculum methodically teaches the sound and spelling patterns of English. A cardinal rule is that letters, syllables, and words are read (and spelled) from left to right. Reading is meant to be an orderly process, a one-way, left-to-right procession. No other approach is as sure-footed. This rule seems obvious to people who have been taught it, but it’s shocking how many of today’s students have not been given this most basic of instructions. Again, the unbendable rule that we will teach from Day One is that we always read and spell from left to right!
Instruction begins with short-vowel words because the short-vowel pattern is easy to learn. More than half of the syllables and words in English follow this pattern. All 32 lessons of Unit 1 are devoted to short-vowel words. Unit 2 introduces most of the long-vowel patterns. A few more patterns are introduced in Unit 3, at which point your student will know more than three-quarters of the patterns found in English. Unit 4 covers irregular sounds and spellings, including so-called sight words. Unit 4 also puts all the pieces together and practices all the concepts and patterns. Practice is vital to your student becoming a self-assured reader. If you faithfully follow the instructions, by Lesson 90, your student will be reading and spelling five- and six-syllable words with ease and comprehending their meaning.
Sound and spelling patterns are like building blocks. We will introduce one pattern at a time. Most students will become excited and energized as they apply the patterns and discover that it is not difficult to learn to read and spell.
We have structured this program to develop and improve literacy in persons of any age. Success is attainable by students who have a willingness to learn, a caring tutor, and a well-designed reading program. With Reading and Spelling Pure & Simple an instructor has all of the tools needed to promote reading and spelling success.
In this program, we refer to the student as “he.”
The instructor may use “he” and “she” interchangeably.