If you are looking for a complete, systematic phonics
program that uses Orton-Gillingham multisensory methods and incorporates
spelling, Pride Reading does not disappoint. Aligned with the Science of Reading,
this research-based program benefits any child learning to read but is
particularly helpful for struggling learners. The systematic, structured
approach and easy-to-follow lessons make it a win-win for the student and
teacher. The pre-reading level and following Levels 1-5 provide comprehensive
reading instruction. After completing Level 5, students should be at a 6th
grade reading/spelling level. If the student is familiar with and knows his/her
letter sounds, he/she can start in Level 1. Before beginning the program, you
will receive a link with a 40-minute overview (with videos) on how to use the
program successfully. Some students will most likely complete more than one
level per year, but it’s important to go at your child’s pace. Every level
contains three different lessons for each phonics concept: Introduction,
Practice, and Reinforcement. Each lesson takes about 30-40 minutes to complete
(depending on the student) and can be done in one day or broken down into
multiple days. Before moving on to another phonics concept, students should
perform at least 80% on a progress check. Students also have access to fun
computer games for extra practice on the publisher’s website. Spelling pages
include some handwriting practice for sound, word, and sentence dictation;
however, younger students will most likely need a separate handwriting program.
A placement test is available to ensure your child is starting at the correct
level. Components for each level include a Teacher Guide and Student Workbook,
Sound Cards, Letter Tiles and Activity Kit, Student Record Book Bundle, and
Teacher Assessment Guide.
The spiral-bound Teacher
Guide is the key element and is necessary for implementing the program. It provides
scripted lessons for every step. Spiral-bound Student Workbooks for
Levels 1-5 include black-and-white pages consisting of word lists, sentences,
short stories, story sequencing, spelling pages for dictation, fluency
practice, and games.
The required
components used in every level of the program include the Sound Cards and Letter
Tiles and Activity Kit. Sound
Cards are color-coded to match the different levels and to
differentiate between consonants, vowels, prefixes and suffixes, and less
common pronunciations. The Letter
Tiles and Activity Kit includes color-coded letter tiles that
match the sound cards, blank tiles, a 12” x 9” dry-erase board, black and red
pens, a whiteboard eraser, a reading tracker, and a game die.
Two optional
resources make it easy to assess your student’s performance. The Teacher Assessment Guide
includes an initial placement test, progress checks, and post-level assessments
for each level. The Student
Record Book allows you to keep track of your student’s progress for all
levels. Progress checks are also included in the student books. ~ Gina
