Keys for the Teacher
Mastering recognition of high frequency words is an essential component in learning to read. This task is complicated by several factors.

 

1.  Most high frequency words have no picture clues.

2. Many high frequency words hold little meaning. It can be difficult to explain
    words such as “at, the, to and is.”

3. Many high frequency words do not follow typical phonics patterns.

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For these reasons, many high frequency words need to be memorized for quick recall. When to teach high frequency words to young children is complicated. Developmental milestones should take precedence but decisions are often influenced by district and parent expectations.

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Keys for the Children
Good readers learn to “look and say” sight words.