Word recognition instruction: Paving the road to successful reading

This article focuses on the effect of word recognition instruction on later reading success for all students, particularly for those experiencing diff iculties with early reading. A brief review of the knowledge base on word r ecognition instruction is provided. Instructional principles are offered fo r teaching five essential elements of word recognition: letter-sound corres pondence, regular word reading, story reading, irregular word reading, and advanced word analysis. Considerations for monitoring children's progress o n each element are discussed and practical ideas provided.