Letters 'ck' Inquiry for Kindergarten: Sweet Little Readers' Learn to READ Program/Science of Reading/ Ontario FDK/ US Common Core

Sweet Little Learners: Letter 'ck' Inquiry Package

Why do we teach ck together?

"Teaching "ck" together in kindergarten is rooted in evidence-based practices derived from the science of reading. Here are the reasons why educators introduce "ck" as a digraph (two letters representing one sound) in early reading instruction:

1. It Represents One Sound: Even though "ck" is composed of two letters, it represents a single sound /k/. Teaching students to recognize "ck" as a unit helps them decode words more efficiently.

2. Consistency in Words: The "ck" spelling pattern is consistent in words. It comes after a short vowel in a one-syllable word to represent the /k/ sound. Examples include "duck," "sock," and "rack." By teaching this pattern, children can better decode and spell numerous words.

3. Reduces Confusion: Teaching "ck" can help reduce confusion with the letter "k." For instance, we don't spell "rock" as "rok" or "duck" as "duk." Understanding the rule of "ck" following a short vowel in one-syllable words helps clarify spelling for students.

4. Enhances Phonemic Awareness: Phonemic awareness, the ability to hear, identify, and manipulate individual sounds in spoken words, is a critical early reading skill. Teaching combinations like "ck" helps students develop sensitivity to sounds within words.

In essence, the "ck" rule provides kindergarteners with a foundation in understanding English spelling patterns. This early introduction to phonics patterns aids in their reading development and supports them in becoming proficient readers."

Package Highlights:

• Structured Lesson Plans: Receive 4 meticulously crafted lesson plans that guide young learners through the journey of letter and sound recognition for the letter.

• Science of Reading Principles: Our curriculum aligns seamlessly with the Science of Reading principles. By adopting this evidence-based approach, your child will benefit from:

  1. Enhanced phonemic awareness.
  2. Improved word recognition and fluency.
  3. A deeper comprehension of texts.
  4. Effective decoding skills for unfamiliar words.

• Resourceful Book and Video Lists: Supplement the learning experience with our curated lists of books and videos that celebrate the letters.

• Creative Centre Ideas: Engage in hands-on activities that solidify letter understanding, drawing from our bank of center ideas that captivate and educate.

• Worksheets & Templates: The package includes 68+ diverse worksheets and templates, designed to reinforce letter learning in an enjoyable manner.

These activities align with the science of reading principles, which emphasize the importance of phonemic awareness, letter recognition, and multisensory learning for early readers.