Essential Phonics for the Classroom Volunteer
Teach Reading with Confidence — Even if You’ve Never Done It Before

Teach Reading with Confidence — Even if You’ve Never Done It Before
How reading works: from sounds → decoding → comprehension.
The 10 beginning reading concepts all students must master.
How to teach the 10 essential structured phonics concepts step-by-step.
The role of phonics in building lifelong reading skills.
How to use the Essential Phonics lesson plan effectively.
Signs a student may need more targeted support.
Strategies to boost comprehension alongside decoding.
Confidently support students who are learning to read
Provide reading help—even if you're not the primary teacher
Follow a proven lesson plan to teach phonics effectively
Adjust your support to meet kids where they are in their reading journey
Step into any classroom ready to help.
Classroom volunteers and paraprofessionals
Youth & afterschool organizations (BGCSF and others)
Parents and caregivers
Anyone who works with children and youth
Regular price
Immediate access – start the course as soon as you register.
Step-by-step guidance – follow along at your own pace with videos and resources.
Certificate awarded – when you complete the training, you’ll receive an official certificate to share with schools or coordinators.
Get to know you survey Essential Phonics
Preface
The Purpose of this Course
Reading and the Brain
Three Pathways for Using This Course
How to use this online course
Join our office hours
Essential Phonics Reference Manual and Lessons Book
Essential Phonics Digital Phonics Board
The Essential Phonics Lesson Plan: A Brief Overview
From Sounds to Stories: Using Decodable Chapter Books to Teach Reading
Teach your student using our videos!
Concept 1: Consonants & Short Vowels
Concept 2: Open and Closed Syllables
Concept 3: Consonant Teams and Common Ending Sounds
Concept 4: Final Blends
Concept 5: Common Suffixes
Concept 6: Front Blends
Teaching a Full Lesson
Spelling of Syllables: Concept Tracking
Reading: Pressure Release (How to Read With Any Student)
Reading: Beat the Clock (Building Speed & Fluency)
Mid-Course Survey Essential Phonics
Concept 7: Vowel Tag
Concept 8: Silent E
Concept 9: Vowel Change
Concept 10: R Family
Student Starting Points
Choosing Your Student's Book
Comprehension
Understanding Your Reader: Matching Struggles to Essential Phonics Concepts
Post Course Survey Essential Phonics