Ultimate Phonics
Author: Brian Spencer
Publisher: Spencer Learning
For more information or to order: www.readingsupport.com

Teaching a child to read is one of the most rewarding (and frustrating!) aspects of homeschooling.  For some the fruit ripens quickly, while others need more time and patience before their hard work is rewarded.  Over the years I have looked at and used several different reading programs.  So when Ultimate Phonics arrived on my doorstep I wondered what new idea or method might be presented.  I found a course "wrapped" in a bright yellow box that is both user-friendly and effective.

Ultimate Phonics is a student directed, non-consumable program.  Using word families and patterns, the learner will read over 4,400 words and 2000 sentences as he progresses through the 262 lessons.  All of the lessons are on one CD and each lesson's word list and sentences are also provided in an accompanying book, which your child will use to read aloud from as they complete each lesson.  Based on a mastery method, students move at their own pace, coming to you to read their words/sentences with no errors in order to move to the next lesson.  Being used to educational CDs with lots of flashy graphics and animations, it was refreshing to see a program that uses text and audio only - keeping distraction to a minimum. Both beginning and struggling readers can benefit from Ultimate Phonics.  It is often hard to find programs for older learners who still need the basics, but don't want to feel they are using "little kid" material - Ultimate Phonics will appeal especially to these late readers.  Don't let the number of lessons scare you, it is not uncommon for students to complete more than one lesson per session, depending on their ability and length of time devoted to reading instruction. 

One of the things I dislike about so many programs on CD is the on screen user's guide.  I was thrilled to open the bright yellow box to find the Ultimate Phonics CD, thick Words & Sentences book, and a printed booklet entitled, "User's Guide".  The author has done a excellent job of explaining the program, suggesting how to work with your student and providing a step-by-step tutorial so that you can become thoroughly acquainted with Ultimate Phonics before getting started with your child.

I mentioned before that Ultimate Phonics is a student directed program.  Depending on their age, students will only require your attention for the first few lessons as they get used to how the lessons are laid out.  After this initial orientation, most children will be able to complete the lessons independently, coming to you when they are ready to read each lesson aloud.  It is recommended that each lesson's material be read without error in order for the child to move on.  For those with more than one child working on their reading skills at a time, the program allows you to track several students simultaneously. Since it is non-consumable, you will be able to use this one resource to teach reading to all of your children.

Ultimate Phonics is a thoughtfully designed, affordable program that uses a proven method of instruction.  No matter where your children find themselves in their reading journey, Ultimate Phonics can help them reach their destination while allowing each child to travel at their own pace.

Making the grade: A
Cost: $69.95
Value for your homeschool dollar: 10
Reviewed by Cindy Prechtel, Editor