Which instructional method combines whole-language with phonics to effectively teach reading to children with disabilities?

The combination of whole-language and phonics is an effective instructional method for teaching reading, especially to children with disabilities. This approach recognizes that both strategies have unique contributions to reading development. Whole-language promotes comprehension and context through the use of meaningful text, encouraging learners to derive meaning from their reading experiences. On the other hand, phonics provides essential skills for decoding words by understanding the relationship between letters and sounds.

By integrating both methods, educators provide a more holistic reading instruction that caters to diverse learning needs. This combination allows students to develop a love for reading and understand the mechanics of language simultaneously. Students can engage with texts in a meaningful way while also building the foundational skills necessary for decoding and encoding words. This layered approach is particularly beneficial for children with disabilities, as it addresses various aspects of literacy development and cognitive processing.