Assist Preps to learn phonics
Utilising the Continuum of Literacy Instruction
This article explains how to use the Continuum of Literacy Instruction (CLI) to teach phonics to Preps, covering each stage—modelled, shared, interactive, guided, and independent—and offering practical examples to support diverse learning needs.
Read Time: 3 minutes
When it comes to teaching phonics to Preps, the Continuum of Literacy Instruction (CLI) is a powerful tool. It provides a structured approach that covers various aspects of literacy learning, ensuring young students get a solid foundation in reading and writing. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to use CLI effectively to teach phonics to Preps.
Understanding the Continuum of Literacy Instruction
A flexible framework
The CLI is a flexible framework that allows educators to adapt their teaching methods to suit the diverse needs of their students. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach but rather a dynamic way to ensure that every child progresses in their literacy journey at their own pace. CLI incorporates:
- modelled
- shared (sometimes called collaborative)
- interactive
- guided
- independent
A Step-by-Step Phonics Lesson Using CLI
Modelling
In a phonics lesson, start by modeling the target phoneme and its corresponding grapheme. For example, let’s take the letter “S.” Model how to write the letter while saying, “This is the letter ‘S,’ and its sound is ‘ssssss’.” This step is about demonstrating the correct pronunciation and letter formation
Sharing
After modeling, move on to the sharing stage. Invite your young learners to participate actively by saying, “Come on, let’s all do this together”. Encourage them to make the “ssssss” sound while writing the letter “S” on their own. Sharing makes learning a collaborative experience.
Interactive
Now, it’s time to make learning interactive. Challenge the children to use their “magic pens” (their fingers) to write the letter “S” in the air while vocalising the sound. This step promotes kinesthetic learning and helps reinforce the connection between the visual symbol and its sound.
Guided
As the teacher, you’ll transition to the guided stage, where each child practices writing the letter “S” and making the “ssssss” sound independently. Your role here is crucial, as you provide assistance and supervision to correct any mistakes. It’s a supportive and safe environment for learning.
Independent
Finally, the independent stage is where your Preps take responsibility for their learning. They can write the letter “S” and make the “ssssss” sound on their own confidently. This is a significant milestone because they have progressed from being dependent on the teacher to being self-sufficient learners.
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Alternative Approaches with CLI
While a complete journey through the CLI in a single lesson is possible, it’s not the only way to use this framework. You can also tailor your phonics instruction to focus on specific CLI stages.
For instance, you might choose to do a model-only reading lesson or a shared lesson focusing on writing or reading. Similarly, interactive and guided stages can be isolated for specific lessons. Then, in the independent stage, your Preps can demonstrate their ability to apply what they’ve learned in reading or writing, depending on your emphasis.
You can also use the approach in a literacy block where you have rotations at different stages of the continuum. Teacher Aides can support the teacher with the first four stages of the continuum.
The Continuum of Literacy Instruction is a versatile tool for educators in English classes, as shown in this example of teaching phonics to Preps. Whether you prefer a comprehensive journey through the CLI or opt for focused lessons on individual stages, this framework ensures that each child gets the support and guidance they need to become proficient readers and writers. Phonics becomes an exciting and interactive experience as Preps progress through these stages, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of reading and learning.
