In a code-emphasis (phonics) lesson, what is essential?

• A. Explicit instruction; integration of phonics, writing, spelling, and other pillars; planning; access to high-quality instruction.
• B. Guesswork and trial-and-error.
• C. Excluding reading comprehension.
• D. Focusing only on listening activities.

Answer: (A)

Explicit, systematic phonics instruction paired with deliberate integration of phonics with writing, spelling, and other literacy activities is essential in a code-emphasis lesson. This approach helps students clearly learn letter-sound relationships and how to apply them to decode and encode words, rather than guessing. Planning ensures the instruction follows a clear progression, supports differentiation, and provides the right practice opportunities for each learner. Access to high-quality instruction guarantees that teaching methods are evidence-based and delivered effectively, which supports all students. Guesswork and trial-and-error lack structure and evidence, while focusing only on listening activities ignores decoding, spelling, and the goal of applying phonics to reading and writing.