What is the main focus of phonics instruction?

Phonics instruction primarily focuses on the connection between sounds and letters, which is fundamental for reading development. This approach teaches students how to decode words by understanding how individual sounds (phonemes) correspond to written letters or groups of letters (graphemes). By learning these relationships, students gain the ability to sound out unfamiliar words, which enhances their reading skills and promotes literacy.

The emphasis on connecting sounds to letters is crucial because it lays the foundation for more advanced reading strategies. As students become proficient in decoding words, they can focus on comprehension and more complex literary elements. This foundational skill is essential for beginning readers and plays a significant role in their overall reading success.