- 1). Divide the alphabet and work on a few letters each week. Say the sounds of each letter, while the student watches you. He should mimic the letter sound you make.
- 2). Use manipulatives to help him learn proper pronunciation. For example, bring in a ball and have him say the "Buh" sound. Using a hands-on sensory activity will help the brain make connections quicker. The student will have an easier time associating that sound to the letter "B."
- 3). Teach him letter blend sounds. After he has mastered individual letter sounds, move on the blends, diphthongs and dipthongs. He needs to watch your mouth and mimic the sounds you make.
- 4). Try sounding out simple words. Avoid words that are long or that have phonic rule exceptions. Some good words to start with include: run, then, bus, dog, cat and grin. Sound out the word yourself first; then, ask him to repeat the word after you. Leave some words for him to sound out on his own.
- 5). Require him to trace textured letters and words, as he makes their sounds. Textured letter cards can be found at any teacher-parent store. You can make your own by creating a letter with glue, then sprinkling sand onto the glue. After it dries, the card is ready for use. This activity reinforces the shape of the letter with the sound it makes. Check to make sure he is pronouncing the letter correctly, as he traces each letter.
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