Phonological awareness refers to a child’s ability to hear and manipulate sounds. Be aware that this skill has nothing to do with written letters or words. It is purely verbal. By developing phonological awareness students will begin to play with rhyme, decide whether spoken words have the same beginning or ending sounds, and for older students practice dividing words by syllables. However, developing phonological awareness is essential for children of all ages. In fact, this ability is the biggest indicator of future reading success. Luckily, Dr. Seuss books are a great way to practice phonological awareness with your students. As you read with them, you can practice making different sounds, explore alliteration and most importantly look at rhyme.
Phonics
Phonics can be defined as the relationship between sounds and letters. It differs from phonemic awareness in that it involves print. When students learn that the written letter D makes the /d/ sound, they are learning phonics. Together, phonics and phonological awareness are the building blocks for reading.
Many Dr. Seuss books can be used to practice phonics. Students can decode or “sound out” each letter of the short words that are included in many of his works. However, some of Dr. Seuss’ books may not be the best for your students who are just learning how to read. Stories that contain many made-up words may be hard for them to decode. These longer, more-elaborate books may be best for read aloud times. The smaller books that focus on short-vowel and sight words will be best for independent readers. Here is a list of easy-reader Dr. Seuss books that your students will love reading on their own:
1.One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish 2.Hop on Pop 3.Fox in Socks 4.Green Eggs and Ham 5.Ten Apples Up on Top!