The phonological side of the English language is critical to reading. Understanding and being able to automatically use the symbol to sound relationship of letters and syllables and the rules of phonics are critical to fluent reading and comprehension. There are a number of possible causes for weakness in this area including deficits in phonological awareness and memory as well as general memory issues. Constant practice and repetition in this area is critical to improvement. It is extremely important to reinforce and practice the rules of phonics repeatedly throughout any program designed to assist struggling readers.

Please "Scope & Sequence" for additional information on how the MD4 Reading program addresses weakness in phonics.

Following is a partial list of the prerequisite reading skills that Area 7 of the MD4 Reading program trains. Please note that some skills are trained in more than one area and that the degree or amount training of a skill can vary between areas.