How to Learn to Read Using the Bible
- 1). Using a broad-tipped marker, make alphabet flashcards by simply writing one letter on one side of each index card in upper and lowercase. For example, your first card would have "A a" on one side; your next card would have "B b"; the next would have "C c" and so on. (Note: the resource box below has a link to a site with free, downloadable phonics flashcards and hand-outs.)
- 2). Practice with the alphabet flashcards by holding them up and sounding out the letter. So, with the "A a" card, you would say "ah" (as it sounds in apple) and "ah" (as it sounds in America); with the "B b" card, you would say "buh"; with the "C c" card you would say "Cuh." This method eliminates the need to learn the "name" of the letter and then translate that name into a sound. Instead you quickly associate the appropriate sound with the letter. (Note: Say both long and short sounds for the vowels.)
- 3). Once you get comfortable with the alphabet sounds, make combination-sounds flashcards for the following combinations: ch, ck, ng, qu, sh, th, wh.
- 4). Once you've memorized the sounds of the letters, get out your Bible and keep your alphabet flashcards close by. Start at the beginning: Genesis 1:1. Look at the first three words: "In the beginning." Match up the first letter of the first word with the flashcard that has the same letter: "I i." Say the sound, then find the flashcard for the next word: "N n." Say that sound. Now say the two sounds together: "ih" plus "nuh." (Note: Try both long and short sounds for the vowels.) The sounds you are making is the word "IN." Congratulations. You just read the first word of the Bible.
- 5). Continue using your flashcards and sounding out letters; skip the words that you can't figure out.
- 6). It's time for more flashcards! Make flashcards for dipthongs: ee, ea, ai, oa, oo, au, ea, ie, ou, ui, ow, oi, ew. Practice and repeat; practice and repeat.
- 7). Learn the phonics rules. See the resource box below.
- 8). Keep practicing on words from the Bible with your flashcards. As you get comfortable, put away your alphabet flashcards and use only your combination-sounds flashcards and dipthong flashcards.
- 9). Take it slow and practice every day for at least 10 or 15 minutes. When you get frustrated, take a break. When you hit a word you can't figure out, try it again, then put it aside and move on. Come back to it later when you are fresh or when you have someone to help.
- 10
Notice all the words that are so familiar you don't even have to sound them out anymore. You're making progress! Sure, some big words will be difficult for a while, but the more you practice, the more words you will know, and the easier it will be to read. Keep reviewing your flashcards regularly, and keep reading.