How does phonics instruction influence spelling skills?

Phonics instruction significantly influences spelling skills by teaching the rules of sound-letter correspondence. This foundational approach helps learners understand how sounds correspond to specific letters or groups of letters, which in turn allows them to decode and encode words more effectively. By mastering these relationships, students can apply their knowledge to spell words accurately. For instance, knowing that the sound /k/ can be represented by the letters 'c,' 'k,' or 'ck' enables students to make informed spelling choices based on phonetic patterns. Additionally, this type of instruction encourages systematic practice and application, reinforcing both reading and spelling abilities. The emphasis on sound-letter relationships is crucial for developing strong literacy skills.