Teach your child to read | Short Course

How do I teach my child to read? Whether you have a toddler in their pre-reading phase or a brand new reader in grade 1, or even an older child who just can’t master the skill of reading, this course is for you.

In this specialized course we look at, among other things, the signs of reading readiness, the different teaching methods and approaches to reading, the use of leveled readers, high frequency words, and how to help struggling readers.

Teaching a child to read can be daunting and challenging, but this course will empower you step-by-step.

Course Content:

Chapter 1: Introduction to early literacy

Lesson 1: South Africa’s reading crisis

Lesson 2: The importance of early literacy development

Lesson 3: The typical age for learning to read

Lesson 4: Signs that indicate reading readiness

Chapter 2: Pre-reading skills

Lesson 1: Crack the code

Lesson 2: Phonemic awareness

Lesson 3: Phonological awareness

Lesson 4: Awareness of pressure

Lesson 5: Vocabulary development

Chapter 3: Methods for teaching reading

Lesson 1: Sound-based approach: teaching letter-sound correspondence

Lesson 2: Whole language approach: focus on meaning and context

Lesson 3: Balanced approach: combine phonics with reading for meaning

Lesson 4: Which method do I choose?

Chapter 4: Use of levelled reading booklets

Lesson 1: Reading levels

Lesson 2: Advantages and limitations of levelled reading books

Lesson 3: How to choose appropriate levelled reading books

Chapter 4: Scaffolding in reading instruction

Lesson 1: Scaffolding in reading instruction

Lesson 2: Read aloud

Lesson 3: Shared reading

Lesson 4: Guided reading

Lesson 5: Independent reading

Chapter 6: High frequency words and sight words

Lesson 1: What are high frequency words and what are sight words?

Lesson 2: The importance of sight words in reading fluency

Lesson 3: Strategies for teaching and reinforcing high frequency words

Chapter 7: Tips for struggling readers

Lesson 1: Identifying challenges

Lesson 2: Seek appropriate support

Lesson 3: Developing a personal plan

Lesson 4: Providing additional practice and reinforcement

Lesson 5: Celebrate progress and maintain a positive attitude