Ep. 180: Teaching the Alphabet with Shayne Piasta

Shayne Piasta discusses best practices for teaching alphabet knowledge. She tells us what the research suggests about teaching  letter names and sounds, why teaching a letter of the week may not be the most effective approach, and an order to teach letters. The best part? She shares concrete ideas and strategies for classroom practice. TakeawaysTeach both letter names and sounds simultaneously.Consider the acrophonic principle, where the letter name gives clues to its sound.Avoid teaching letters of the week and consider a faster pacing for letter instruction.Be intentional about the order of teaching letters, considering children's names and frequency of letters in text.Use differentiated instruction and embedded mnemonics for effective alphabet instruction.ResourcesHandbook on the Science of Early LiteracyThe Science of Early Alphabet Instruction, chapter 7Ohio State University Alphabet Learning and Instruction research and articlesOhio State University Early Literacy and Learning LabEpisode 164: Misconceptions About Learning to Read with Carolyn Strom Looking for more literacy support and resources? Explore all of our podcast episodes, free listening guides, and classroom tools at literacypodcast.com.Interested in bringing Melissa & Lori Love Literacy to your school or event? Email us at [email protected].