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Phonics

Teaching children to read by linking sounds (phonemes) with letters or groups of letters (graphemes).

Used in
All four UK nations (details may differ), United States, International
Topic
Teaching and learning

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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Systematic synthetic phonics (SSP) England
A method of teaching reading in which children learn letter-sound correspondences in a planned order and blend sounds to read words. Schools in England are expected to use a validated SSP programme.
Phoneme All four UK nations (details may differ) United States International
The smallest unit of sound in speech that can change a word's meaning.
Grapheme All four UK nations (details may differ) United States International
A letter or group of letters that represents a phoneme in writing.

More terms: Teaching and learning

Pacing guide · Personalised learning · Phonemic awareness · Phonological awareness · Plenary · Project-based learning

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Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.