The purpose of this introduction
Start with the thinking behind the method.
Before asking a learner to break apart a word, the teacher needs to see what each part of the routine is doing. The goal is not simply to memorize a sequence. It is to recognize how the sequence gives a learner useful points of contact.
A familiar piece, a spoken syllable, a visible pattern, or a simple movement can become a handle. The teacher can then help the learner put the pieces back together and use what they know.
Keep the routine in view
Seven steps. One clear way in.
- See it
- Say it
- Clap it
- Break it
- Find what we know
- Read it
- Write it
Clapping may become tapping, finger counting, or slowed speech. The sound-structure step still needs to do its job.
Starter teaching resources
Begin here, then continue through the complete library.
Printable classroom resource
Classroom Song / Chant
A Clean Classroom Song and Teacher Summary
Classroom audio resource
Classroom Song / Chant — Audio
The Building Blocks of Language classroom-song recording
Classroom video resource
Classroom Song / Chant — Video
Building language song
Teacher lesson plan
The Building Blocks of Language: Lesson Plan 1
After PE and Cooldown • 2 printable pages
Teacher lesson plan
The Building Blocks of Language: Lesson Plan 2
After PE and Cooldown • 4 printable pages
Teacher reflection tool
Teacher’s Log
A Reference for Your Journal