Randy Said:

Teachers: What do you think of the phonics method used to teach children to read? UK primary teachers only.?

We Answered:

This isn't a new method it's been used for years. I use it and it works for most children I have taught including those with Special Educational needs. Now and again I come across children who for one reason or another find phonics difficult and learn better using 'whole word recognition' but these children are few and far between. The Jolly Phonics programme in particular is very good with fabulous resources and engaging characters that really hold the children's interest but there are other phonics programmes out there. I can't say if it has improved reading levels in children as it is the main method I have used to teach reading to infants in the 7 years that I have taught so I cannot really compare it to any other method.