P.A.T. stands for Phonological Auditory Training. This training teaches the 44 sounds of the English language, beginning with the sounds that are easiest to hear and blend together and progressing to the more difficult sounds and sound combinations. It combines this sound-level work with reading and writing practice, resulting in a comprehensive approach to building reading and spelling skills.
How is P.A.T. different from other programs?
P.A.T. is phonological auditory training that is specific, organized and detailed. It teaches the sounds of the English language until the child is able to use them automatically (with no hesitation whatsoever) when reading and spelling. P.A.T. ensures that the reading of words is effortless, so that reading speed is improved, as is understanding and remembering what has been read.
What happens if I can’t effectively help my child with the sound work at home?
Some parents do not feel comfortable practicing the sound work with their child at home. For these parents we recommend that they spend the homework time on reading and writing, which are equally important.
Will P.A.T. help someone who has been identified as dyslexic?
Yes. Dyslexia (or specific reading disability) is the most common of the learning disabilities, affecting 80 percent of all those identified as learning disabled. Most individuals diagnosed as dyslexic have phonological processing difficulties. SpellRead can address this area of need.
How soon will I see changes in my child’s reading and spelling?
This varies widely and depends to some degree on the level of skills on entering the program. Frequently some change is obvious at the end of the first 20 hours of instruction, but don’t be disappointed if this is not the case for your child. Slower progress in the beginning does not mean that the end result will be disappointing. Be aware also that reading develops at a faster rate than spelling.
How big are the classes and how are the children grouped together
Class size is limited to 3 or 4 children so that each child gets plenty of opportunity to read aloud and do the sound work individually. The children are grouped according to their age and reading ability.
What happens when children in a group don’t progress at the same rate?
It would be unusual for all of the children in a group to progress at exactly the same rate. If, however, one child begins to have significantly more difficulty with a particular part of the program, that child will first be given some focused practice within the group. If necessary, additional one-on-one attention outside the class may also be provided.
How are the books for the program chosen?
The books are chosen on the basis of the reading level, interest level, and content, with a mixture of fiction and nonfiction.
