Letter naming is a strong predictor for future reading success. Students cannot know and apply the Alphabetic Principle until they can recognize and name the majority of letters. Students need explicit instruction that will help them identify, name, and write letters. Once students are able to rapidly identify and name letters, then they will be ready to move on to letter sounds and spellings. Today, I am sharing my 5 favorite ways to teach letters. To learn more about the alphabetic Principal, check out this post.
Letters in Their Name
I always start with the letters in their name. Even if they don’t know the names of the letters, it gives students a frame of reference and hopeful some background knowledge. Most kids at least recognize the first letter in their name. Check out this post with 8 FREE ways to teach names.
Circle Map
Every time I introduce a letter, a create a circle map. This is a great way to build on students prior knowledge. Plus, you will have something to reference. This is essential for struggling students.
Letter Formation
Letter formation matters. It helps students to connect to the letter shape and letter name to memory. We air write letters, build them with playdough, and write them in the sand. Then, we practice writing them on paper. You can have students use crayons to get more feedback as they write. Find my favorite letter formation activities here.
Circle Time Activities
Every day, we review the letter cards This gives students exposure to the letters, even before you explicitly teach them (aka, building background knowledge). I also like to do pocket chart activities. We sort letters by size -tall like a giraffe, small, and hanging. You can also sort letters by fonts, straight and round, and letter in their name versus not in their name. When I introduce students to a new letter, I start with a YouTube Video. Jack Hartman created a new set in 2021 that I use.
Independent Practice
Finally, students need the opportunity to independently practice their letter knowledge. I use literacy centers, that include fun games, such as 4 in a Row or Roll, Say, Keep. Another simple game is to put all the letters in a fun basket, have students practice taking the letter out and saying it’s name or sound. You can find my favorite letter and beginning sounds games and activities here.
