Teaching Library
Clear answers for teaching phonics with more confidence.
Read practical notes on what to teach next, how to use the activity formats, and how to choose the right level of support for your learners.
What you’ll find
Practical guidance for instruction, review, and resource selection.
What to teach next
Understand where a learner fits in the phonics pathway.
How to use the pages
See how Core and Extension activities work in short teaching blocks.
Support practice
Plan review for small group, tutoring, homeschool, and intervention.
Choose the right resource
Compare Core, Extension, Complete, and Full Program options.
Start reading
Latest Orchard Literacy notes.
Why the Shift to Phonics from Whole Word Reading?
There’s a simple yet powerful truth in these words: “When a child memorizes ten words, they can only read ten words. But if a child learns the sounds of ten letters, they can read: 350 three-sound words, 4,320 four-sound words, and 21,650 five-sound words” (Kosloff, 2002). In essence, a child can read “cat” by sounding…
Read articleThe Power of Repetition: How Training Builds Independent Learners
As educators and parents, we often find ourselves juggling multiple tasks at once. Whether it’s managing a classroom full of energetic learners or supporting a child at home, we all appreciate strategies that help children grow in independence. One simple yet powerful tool? Repetition. When students practice a skill repeatedly, they become more confident and…
Read article