Letters and the Alphabet

Letters are written symbols that represent the individual sounds (phonemes) of spoken language. They are the building blocks of written words in alphabetic writing systems like English. As you are probably aware, English features 26 letters each with a lower case and upper case version. Letter knowledge is one of the strongest predictors of early reading success.  

The best way to teach letters names is through explicit, systematic, and multisensory instruction.    

1. Introduce Letters Systematically  

2. Use Multisensory Activities

• See it (visual): flashcards, letter books, anchor charts
• Say it (auditory): chants, songs, alliteration
• Feel it (tactile/kinesthetic): tracing in sand, air writing, magnetic letters

3. Practice in Context and Isolation

• Use text and simple word-building activities.
• Provide time for letter matching, sorting, and naming games

4. Spaced and Cumulative Review

• Continually review previously taught letters
• Provide daily practice and integrate into literacy routines                           

HELP Letters focuses on three instructional goals:

1. Letter Recognition & Naming.  Quickly and accurately recognize and identify 26 upper case and lower case letters.
2. Vowels and Consonants.  Categorize letters as vowels or  consonants.  
3. Letter Patterns. Recognize common letter patterns found in words.  

HELP K3 Literacy is the most effective way to teach letter recognition because it combines systematic direct instruction, guided practice, engaging letter learning games, and environmental literacy supports. HELP Letters Lessons feature targeted direct instruction to teach letter recognition and naming, categorizing letters, and recognizing common letters patterns. Letters are presented one at a time in a purposeful sequence that allows students to begin exploring phonics and creating words immediately.