Alphabet learning is more than a song.
- There are several dimensions to learning the alphabet. The links between an alphabet letter name and its sound are variable. When we say that a child knows the alphabet we mean that the child must understand the relation between and among the letter (symbol), meaning, and sound. For example, the letter A stands for a concept, a meaning, and a sound. In English, we have 26 letters of the alphabet but approximately 44 sounds of the spoken language (Kucer, 2005).
- It is good for children to be able to sing and remember the alphabet song but it does not mean they can identify each alphabet letter regardless of its placement, that they can listen to and identify its sound, and understand how it is used in a specific context. The alphabet song is a very simple beginning and the form and function of the alphabet is fundamental to participation in the world of print.
- Layout and Format Features
- Century Gothic font was used because it is the easiest of fonts for children to read.
- Both upper and lower case letters are used because both are necessary in learning to read
- Repeat occurrences of letters to increase exposure to, and practice with the alphabet.
- Follows a predictable format (Letter, Word, Complementary Illustration placements).
- Based on eye movement research, letters and words are carefully positioned to accommodate children’s attention to each.
- Word Features
- Word choices reflect the most common sound represented by each of the alphabet letters.
- Emphasis is on the first letter-sound in each of the words.
- Illustration Features
- Designed to provide delightful, colourful, and realistic objects and animals interacting in unexpected ways on the Alphabet Stage.
- This design fosters practice, recognition of the alphabet letters, memory development, and promotes oral and written language.
- Cognitive Features
- Designed to teach alphabet knowledge, specifically, letter name, letter-sound correspondence, visual cues (including complementary illustrations), and oral and written vocabulary.
- Provides repetition for exposure and memory development.
- Eliminates any confusion between letters and sounds.
- Facilitates the development of mental graphic representation of alphabet letters.