*  The relationships between letter sounds and spelling patterns within written language and the individual sounds (phonemes) of 

           spoken  language. It teaches children to use these relationships to read and write words. 

       *  Readers use of this knowledge to decode or encode unknown words

 Phonics instruction

       *  helps children learn the relationships between letters of written language and the sounds of spoken language

 Phonics instruction is important because

       *  it leads to an understanding of the alphabetic principle- the systematic and predictable relationships between written letters and

           spoken sound

Programs of phonics instruction are effective when they are

      *  systematic-the plan of instruction includes a carefully selected set of letter-sound relationships that are organized into a logical  

                              sequence.

      *  explicit- the programs provide teachers with precise directions for the teaching of these relationships.

 Systematic and explicit phonics instruction

      *  significantly improves children's word recognition, spelling, and reading comprehension.

      *  is most effective when it begins in kindergarten or first grade.