In teaching phonics, what kind of resources should be selected according to best practices?

The selection of resources for teaching phonics should prioritize materials that support the development of decoding and word identification strategies. This is because phonics instruction is fundamentally about helping students understand the relationships between letters and sounds, which in turn facilitates their ability to decode and read unfamiliar words. Resources that focus on decoding strategies provide the necessary skills for students to break down words into manageable parts, thus enhancing their reading fluency and comprehension.

Moreover, effective phonics resources often include interactive elements, real-world contexts, and gradual progression in difficulty, which are critical for engaging students and building their confidence in reading.

The other options lack a comprehensive approach to phonics. For example, relying exclusively on electronic learning tools may neglect critical hands-on and contextual experiences that are essential for effective learning. Focusing solely on student interests might overlook systematic instruction needed to build foundational skills. Lastly, using textbooks that concentrate only on grammar rules can lead to gaps in the vital early reading skills that phonics instruction aims to address.