Kindergarten Teacher how-to

How to Teach a Phonics Lesson

Explicit phonics builds strong readers.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Explicit phonics builds strong readers. In short: review; introduce; model, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Review previously taught sounds.

  2. Introduce the new letter and sound.

  3. Model words with the sound.

  4. Practice blending sounds into words.

  5. Have students write the letter.

  6. Check understanding with quick reads.

Safety reminders for kindergarten teachers

  • Supervise students at all times
  • Follow allergy and medical plans
  • Practice emergency drills
  • Teach safe movement in the classroom

Phonics · Phonemic awareness · Sight words · Number sense · Manipulatives · Literacy centers: see the full kindergarten teacher glossary.

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