What do Spanish-speaking students need when learning to read English sounds that differ from their native language?

Spanish-speaking students often encounter significant differences between the phonetic structures of Spanish and English. As they learn to read in English, they benefit immensely from explicit instruction in pronunciation and articulation. This focused teaching helps them understand how specific sounds in English are produced, making it easier for them to recognize and differentiate these sounds when reading.

Explicit instruction provides clear and direct guidance, allowing students to engage with new phonemes that might not exist in their native language or are pronounced differently. Such instruction can include modeling sounds, practicing articulation through repetition, and employing visual aids, which are crucial in building their phonemic awareness.

This method contrasts sharply with minimal exposure or inconsistent practice. Without structured and explicit teaching, students may struggle to develop the skills necessary for accurate pronunciation and comprehension, particularly in the initial stages of learning to read English. Therefore, explicit instruction in pronunciation and articulation is an essential component of effective literacy development for Spanish-speaking students.