Effectiveness of the Phonics Method in Improving Beginning Reading Skills of Low-Grade Students

Abstract

Reading is a crucial skill for academic success. This research investigates how effective the phonics method is in enhancing reading skills for first-grade elementary students. We conducted a literature review to analyze previous studies on phonics and compared them to traditional teaching methods. The findings indicate that the phonics method is generally more effective in improving early literacy skills, particularly in recognizing the relationship between letters and sounds and in reading fluency. In addition, the phonics method also helps increase students' motivation to learn. However, this study identified several limitations of previous research, such as the lack of attention to the educational context in Indonesia and obstacles in its application in diverse classrooms. The implications of this study suggest the need to adapt the use of phonics methods in Indonesia more widely, with an emphasis on 21st-century literacy needs. It is hoped that this review can become a basis for further research in elementary education regarding the application of phonics methods and can provide insight for educators in planning more effective learning strategies.