The Alphabetic Principle
As Section 8.1 of your text states, the most important visual literacy component of learning to read is the alphabetic principle (Coats, 2013). This understanding that words consist of letters that correspond to sounds must be taught explicitly. After viewing the video The Alphabetic Principle and reading Chapter 8 of your text, you will discuss ways in which you can use the alphabetic principle in your teaching, and then you will conduct a book review.
According to the first letter of your last name, select a book that meets your assigned criteria below as the basis for this discussion.
- A – I: Select a book that teaches sight words.
- J – R: Select a book that is a rhyming alphabet book.
- S – Z: Select a book that builds vocabulary.
Discuss ways in which we use the alphabetic principle in our classrooms or daily lives. Use the video for examples. Then, provide the title and author of the book, and give a brief overview of what the book is about. For your book review, discuss how the book meets your assigned criteria and how it specifically addresses that skill. Identify ways you can use the book in your classroom to reinforce your assigned criteria.
