Sight Word Method

The sight word method is basic memorization.  The goal is to recognize high frequency words and say the word in less than a second.  The student shouldn't have to analyze the word.  In some cases, the word can not be phonetically decoded. 

The best approach to learning sight words is "over learning".  My Breakfast Reading Program uses the "I Say - You Say"  - "You Say - I Say" approach. 

I Say - You Say:

If you are working with a single student, small group or a class, you as the teacher/coach would randomly point to a word, say the word and then the student(s) would say the word.  This should be repeated rapidly over a 30 second or 60 second time period.  It is best to introduce only five words at a time.

You Say - I Say:

After the "I Say - You Say", have a student or coach randomly point to a word.  The student(s) should say the word in less than 3 seconds.  If not, the coach would say the word and then the student(s) would say the word.  This should be repeated rapidly over a 30 second or 60 second time period.

Following is a sample format that could be used on a white board or a sheet of paper if working directly with students. 

This link provides an example of Lesson #1's Worksheet #1.  Worksheet #1 is used for all 53 lessons for introducing sight words and/or irregular rimes.

This link provides a movie clip demonstrating the technique.