The Whole Language vs Phonics Debate Continues...

Phonics proponents believe that by teaching the basics first, all children are given the opportunity to be equal. All children are given a chance to succeed.

SO NOW WHAT?

The most logical consensus is to mesh the two ideas. Phonics education would be taught from grades K-3 that will establish a strong base. Yet, instead of using traditional "See Dick Run" phonics books, perhaps higher quality, literature-based reading could be used. Slowly the children will be able to read anything and everything.

WHAT DO I THINK (REALIZE THIS IS AN OPINION, FEEL FREE TO ADD YOURS TO THE DISCUSSION)

Personally, I have seen the results of a solely whole language approach to reading. I think it leads to chaos and confusion for many children. They get left behind and are forever struggling to be part of their "group." In a Phonics environment children are given the opportunity to learn the basics. I know I wouldn't have wanted to drive a vehicle without first having learned the car's components. The same is true of language. Sure many students don't necessarily need phoneme instruction, however, there may be some missing information. By teaching phonics first, we are giving our children the opportunity to succeed. Whole Language proponents believe those lagging behind could get tutors-okay, so wouldn't that put those disadvantaged students at an even more disadvantage? Whole language sets up a system of individualized learning (something that should be done much, much later) which makes it difficult for a single teacher to teach an entire classroom of children ranging from very low ability to extremely high ability. I've been the situation. A teacher ends up teaching to the middle group due to time constraints and hoping beyond hope that the low achievers will catch on somewhat and that the high achievers will continue to aim high. Are we doing our children a favor by segregating the groups so early on? Please add your thoughts; start a discussion. What theory is being used in your school? Is it working? How do you know?

In my next article I will list many of the web sites I've found to be helpful in understanding these theories as well as web sites that will help you teach with a whole language style or a phonics style or both. Until next time.

Bridget Slayden, Contributing Editor English Education K-12

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