Whole Language vs. Phonics - What is the Difference?
In
elementary education, there are two main approaches to teach young students how
to read: Whole Language and Phonics
instruction. Although considered somewhat controversial, it is
important to understand what Whole Language and Phonics Instruction is, and how
these methods can help children read. In addition, parents must be aware of the
characteristics of both learning programs for the added benefit to their
children. In some cases, one program may be better suited to the needs of a
child, however, most children benefit from a blend of both learning programs.
Phonics Instruction
The
nineteenth century gave birth to a traditional theory of learning that was the
foundation for phonetic reading. To put it simply, the theory showed that
children needed to break down a complex skill, such as reading, into its
smallest components for easy comprehension. Basically, this means that children
need to break up sentences by words, then down to the letters in the words for
pronunciation. For instance, a child will look at a word and dissect it into
each letter's sound. Next, they pronounce the word. As they continue, they
learn how letters sound when grouped together. As a result, they learn to
pronounce unfamiliar words that look intimidating to them.
Whole Language Instruction
In the
simplest terms, “whole language” is a method of teaching children
to read by recognizing words as whole pieces of language. Proponents of
the whole language philosophy believe that language should not be broken down
into letters and combinations of letters and “decoded.” Instead, they believe
that language is a complete system of making meaning, with words functioning in
relation to each other in context.
Comparison Between Both Philosophies
Phonics Programs tend to help
students with better word recognition, spelling, and pronunciation. By
"sounding out" the words through letter recognition, young students
memorize how to read the words in front of them. Whole language does not have a
written formula to follow, so word identification often is like guesswork for
children. However, if only Phonic learning is used, children have major
difficulties in reading comprehension, as well as having issues with the
creative writing process. Whole language teaches better understanding of text.
Which is Best for a Young Student?
Although this is a highly debated
subject, most educators agree on a middle ground that both Phonics and Whole
Language Reading Programs are beneficial. When using both programs, a young
student has a more holistic approach to reading literacy. In addition, the combination
of techniques ensures proper pronunciation, spelling and word identification as
well as reading comprehension and creative writing. Auditory learners benefit
from Phonetics, while visual learners connect with Whole Language.
Conclusions:
The best approach for literacy is a
combination of both Whole Language and Phonics instruction. While there are
several benefits to both schools of thought, each program has its own unique
characteristics. Because
of disagreements over the years about which type of reading instruction is
best, phonics or whole language, the National Reading Panel began a study in 1997
to settle the debate. In 2000, the Panel released its findings, stating that
there are five essential components that must be taught in an effective reading
program: phonemic awareness, phonics, reading fluency, vocabulary development,
and reading comprehension.
