TEXES Science of Teaching Reading Practice Test

What is the most effective follow-up activity with word cards after explicit instruction in letter sounds?

1. Adding "n" cards to a set for instant word recognition practice

2. Calling out words for students to spell

3. Using the cards in a memory game

4. Having students create sentences with the cards

The correct answer is: Adding "n" cards to a set for instant word recognition practice

The most effective follow-up activity with word cards after explicit instruction in letter sounds is adding "n" cards to a set for instant word recognition practice. This approach reinforces phonics knowledge by allowing students to apply their understanding of letter sounds in a practical context. By focusing on "n" cards, students can practice blending sounds to form new words, thereby enhancing their phonemic awareness and expanding their instant word recognition. This activity builds on the explicit instruction they've received and helps solidify their understanding of how sounds combine to create words, promoting confidence in reading. The other activities listed may have their own benefits, but they do not directly reinforce the same foundational skills. For example, calling out words for students to spell may assess their spelling ability but does not focus as clearly on the connection between sounds and letters. Using the cards in a memory game provides a fun element but might not directly support the immediate recall of letter-sound associations. Creating sentences with the cards can foster comprehension skills but requires a higher level of cognitive processing that may not prioritize the fundamental letter-sound relationships established in the initial instruction.