Glossary

Phonological awareness

Phonological awareness is the broad ability to notice and work with the sound structure of spoken language: words, syllables, rhymes and individual sounds.

Phonemic awareness is the finest level of it, dealing with single sounds. Phonological awareness also covers clapping syllables, recognising rhyme, and hearing the first sound in a word.

Why it matters for the record

Most phonics programs assume a base of phonological awareness. If early lessons stall, this is one of the places to look.

Related terms

Rate each skill as you teach it

Needs support, Developing, Secure. The rating schedules the review and builds the report.

Start free