Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

What is a recommended strategy for teaching letter identification?

1. Introducing letters gradually

2. Teaching multiple letters every day

3. Ignoring letters with high value to learners

4. Focusing solely on uppercase letters

The correct answer is: Introducing letters gradually

Introducing letters gradually is a recommended strategy for teaching letter identification because it allows learners to build their understanding and mastery at a comfortable pace. This approach helps prevent overwhelming students, as they can focus on a few letters at a time and achieve success before moving on to additional letters. Gradual introduction also enables educators to reinforce each letter's sounds and uses, making it easier for students to connect letters to their phonetic and contextual significance. The other strategies suggested may not support effective learning. Teaching multiple letters every day could lead to confusion and insufficient retention, while ignoring letters with high value deprives students of critical skills they need for reading. Lastly, focusing solely on uppercase letters can limit learners' exposure to the full spectrum of the alphabet, which includes both uppercase and lowercase letters that are essential for reading proficiency.