Blending Sounds 1 : Phonics Words for Beginners 1.2

Blending Sounds™ 1 Pro presents a scientifically grounded approach to reading instruction, serving as an engaging and effective tool designed for educators and educators-in-training. Developed by Dr. Bartek Rajkowski, a speech and language pathologist with expertise in reading acquisition, this application aims to support beginners in applying letter-sound knowledge to decode words.

The program is predicated on research-based principles concerning phonemic awareness and decoding skills. It offers a comprehensive platform for developing early reading skills, emphasizing the importance of blending speech sounds to facilitate word recognition. Its customizable features allow users to tailor activities targeting specific sound-letter patterns, making it adaptable for diverse teaching contexts.

It is important to note that the app requires an iPad 2 or newer and is currently tailored with an Australian accent, with future updates planned to include US and UK accents. While this tool functions as an interactive activity, it should be viewed primarily as a teaching aid rather than solely a game. Educators are advised to familiarize themselves with its functions prior to implementation with students.

The significance of phonemic blending in reading development cannot be overstated. Skilled readers demonstrate strong phonemic awareness—that words are composed of discrete sounds—and understand how these sounds correspond to written letters. This knowledge underpins the ability to decode unfamiliar words through blending, a critical step supported by synthetic phonics approaches. Decades of research underscore the effectiveness of explicit letter-sound instruction in fostering independent word learning, including among students facing reading challenges.

Blending Sounds™ 1 Pro assists in this developmental process through a proprietary, multisensory teaching method that dynamically adjusts to the learner's progress. Its broad library of CVC, CCVC, and CVCC words enables targeted practice on specific sound patterns and allows for easy customization of activities aligned with individual learning goals or curricula.

The application is well-suited for early learners, students experiencing reading difficulties, and those acquiring English as an additional language. It complements existing phonics programs effectively and is designed to be accessible for teachers, parents, and specialists interested in literacy development.

Key features include:

• Designed by a speech-language pathologist specializing in reading development
• Grounded in scientific research
• User-friendly interface
• Engaging and intuitive
• Suitable for learners of all ages studying English, including those with learning difficulties and ESL students
• Patented, adjustable memory-aid system to reinforce letter-sound associations
• Ability to create and save personalized activities compatible with synthetic phonics methods