Teacher Discussion Forums

Phonics is a big deal in teaching reading to native speakers. However, in EFL?ESL teaching it is rarely used. The 'whole word' method is preferred.

What do you think? Should EFL/ESL teachers teach phonics or would it be a time-wasting distraction?

Philip

It breaks the words down. Sometimes students have difficulties with certain sounds. If that is the case then you can focus on the phonetic part. You can use tongue twisters and other activities. It can work with kids or adults.