One of the programs used in our classroom to introduce and learn letters is called the Animated Alphabet. Animated-Literacy is a comprehensive, researched based, multisensory approach to reading, writing, and oral language instruction that moves students from the earliest stages of literacy to fluency and independence in reading and writing. Phonological awareness, phonics, vocabulary development, comprehension, and fluency are all key elements of the program. Although it seems as if one letter a week is introduced, the other letters are not excluded as the most current research shows that teaching letters in context is a much more effective method than teaching them in isolation. Removing letters from their meaningful context removes the meaning and purpose from the letter. Fluent letter recognition is one of the (if not THE) best predictor of reading success (Adams, 1990). When your child brings the Animated Alphabet song that they have coloured home, encourage them to sing the song (words/tune on the bottom) with the actions they can remember a few times during the week and show you the American sign language finger sign with the letter sound.
Remember this oldie (actually, I think most of you are too young)?
Remember this oldie (actually, I think most of you are too young)?
Click on the pictures for a larger version.
