What is a crucial aspect of phonics instruction?

Phonics instruction is fundamentally about helping students connect sounds with letters, which is essential for reading proficiency. By integrating sounds with letter recognition and reading, phonics instruction enables learners to decode words effectively. This integration supports the systematic development of reading skills, allowing students to blend sounds into words and ultimately enhance their reading fluency and comprehension.

In this context, focusing solely on writing would neglect the vital connection between phonemic awareness and reading skills. Likewise, discouraging the use of texts would eliminate the practical application of phonics, which is crucial for reinforcing learned concepts. Emphasizing speed over comprehension would undermine the purpose of learning to read effectively, as comprehension is key to understanding the material. Thus, the integration of sounds with letter recognition and reading stands out as the core element of effective phonics instruction.