📚 Part 1: Foundation Knowledge & Evidence-Based Practices

1. Which components are essential for building a strong literacy foundation? (Check all that apply)

Phonemic awareness

Phonics instruction

Reading fluency

Vocabulary development

Reading comprehension

2. What is the primary difference between phonics and phonemic awareness?

Phonics focuses on sounds only; phonemic awareness includes letters

Phonemic awareness focuses on sounds only; phonics connects sounds to letters

There is no difference between the two concepts

Phonics is for older students; phonemic awareness is for younger students

3. According to research, what is the most effective approach for literacy instruction?

Whole language approach only

Phonics-only instruction

Balanced literacy with systematic phonics

Independent reading without direct instruction

4. List three evidence-based practices that support literacy development in diverse learners:

✏️ Part 2: Reflection & Application

5. Describe how you would implement "I can..." statements in a phonics lesson for struggling readers. Provide specific examples:

6. Explain how a comprehensive schoolwide literacy approach benefits students compared to classroom-only initiatives. Include at least one research citation (2021-2026):

7. Design differentiation strategies for the following scenario: Teaching phonemic awareness to a mixed group including ELL students, advanced learners, and students with dyslexia:

8. What role does reading fluency play in overall literacy development? Support your answer with evidence-based research (include APA citation from 2021-2026):

🎯 Part 3: Success Criteria & Extension

9. Create success criteria for a lesson teaching the difference between short and long vowel sounds. Write three "I can..." statements:

I can... _________________________________________________

10. Propose two extension activities for advanced learners in a phonics-based literacy program:

11. List three dyslexia-friendly strategies you would incorporate into your literacy instruction:

Discussion Post Requirements: Use your responses to create a 300-400 word discussion post addressing the prompt. Include at least two APA citations from peer-reviewed sources published between 2021-2026.