top of page

Do You Have Questions?

We Have the Answers

top

1)

Q: What is FootStep Phonics?


A: FootStep Phonics is a comprehensive 6-Step synthetic phonics instruction curriculum designed to develop successful and confident early readers. It includes Student Workbooks, Flashcards, Readers for Every Sound, Lesson Plans and Classroom Posters, employing a multi-sensory approach to bring phonics sessions to life.

1

2)

Q: What age group is FootStep Phonics suitable for?


A: FootStep Phonics is best suited for children aged 4 and above. However, the program offers flexibility, allowing children to begin at different levels based on individual ability assessments.

2

3)

Q: How is the FootStep Phonics program structured?


A: The program is structured into 6 Steps, each focusing on different aspects of phonics and reading skills. It progresses from initial sounds and letter recognition to more complex concepts like digraphs, trigraphs, and sentence building.

3

4)

Q: Why doesn't FootStep Phonics introduce letters in alphabetical order?


A: The letter order in FootStep Phonics has been carefully chosen to assist children in word formation from an early stage. This approach aligns with orders suggested by various government educational departments, including the UK.

4

5)

Q: How does FootStep Phonics recognize student progress?


A: Upon successful completion of each workbook, students are awarded a FootStep Phonics "Certificate of Achievement," which they can add to their portfolio.

5

6)

Q: What phonics method does FootStep Phonics use?


A: FootStep Phonics uses the synthetic phonics method, which teaches children to read by blending different letter sounds (phonemes) to make words. This method helps children synthesize words and use this information to process and spell new words they hear or read

6

7)

Q: How does FootStep Phonics support different learning paces?


A: The program allows for flexibility in starting levels. Teachers can assess individual abilities and place students at the most suitable step, whether working with individuals or whole classes.

7

8)

Q: How does FootStep Phonics approach class organization for teaching?

​

A: FootStep Phonics emphasizes the importance of using assessment results to guide your teaching approach. While the program doesn't strictly mandate a single method, it recommends grouping students based on their pace and skill level. This approach ensures that instruction builds effectively on prior knowledge.

The ideal grouping strategy may vary:

  • Whole-class teaching

  • Two distinct groups

  • Several smaller groups

The key is flexibility. Your classroom organization should adapt to your specific setting and the diverse needs of your students. Regular assessments will help you make informed decisions about the most effective grouping strategy for your learners.

8

9)

Q: Is FootStep Phonics suitable for SEND children?

A: Yes, FootStep Phonics is designed to be flexible and inclusive, making it suitable for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Here's how our program supports SEND learners:

  1. Adaptable Resources: Our wealth of resources can be easily modified to meet the diverse needs of SEND children.

  2. Multisensory Approach: We employ various learning methods to support different learning styles and needs.

  3. Comprehensive Intervention Programs: These may benefit children working at a different pace from their peers.

  4. Inclusive Design: While we don't cater to specific needs, our scheme aims to be inclusive for all learners.

​

Find out more about teaching phonics to learners with SEND, here:  How to Teach Phonics for SEN Students: A Teacher's Practical Guide [2025]

9
bottom of page