What are "decodable texts" used for in literacy education?

Decodable texts are specifically designed to support phonics instruction by containing words that students can sound out and decode using their understanding of letter-sound relationships. These texts typically include a limited set of phonetic patterns to match the skills that students are developing at their current reading stage. This allows learners to practice their decoding skills in a meaningful context, which is crucial for building confidence and fluency in reading.

By focusing on phonetic patterns and familiar words, decodable texts provide opportunities for students to apply their knowledge in a structured way, reinforcing their learning and enhancing their reading capabilities. This approach helps to solidify the connection between phonics and reading comprehension, making it a vital component of effective literacy education.