Writing Question

• The Final Reflection will consist of 1 to 2 pages (no more than two pages!), single-spaced, Times New Roman 12-size font, and 1-inch margin pages.
• Must use APA citations. For example, stating "Based on the information provided from the CORE book," it is NOT an APA citation.
• Please use the questions below to complete your Final Reflection.
• Select one (1) question/prompt from the list below to respond to in your reflection.
• Copy the question at the top of the page and develop your answer as instructed in the first bullet above.
• Reference your work just like you've been doing with the Sensational Sixes. Remember, you MUST use Reading Rockets for support.

Choose and respond to one of the questions below.

Final Reflection Essay Directions

For your final reflection essay, choose only ONE of the guiding questions below and respond to it in a well-developed essay. Your response should demonstrate your understanding of the course content by integrating concepts from the Sensational Six and other course materials where appropriate.

Guiding Question 1

What are the foundations of reading instruction (the Sensational Six)? How are these foundational components interrelated?

What I am looking for:

• Identify and explain each of the Sensational Six components:
  • Oral Language
  • Phonological Awareness
  • Phonics
  • Fluency
  • Vocabulary
  • Reading Comprehension
• Do not simply define each component. Explain how each component supports the development of the next and contributes to successful reading.
• Demonstrate that you understand reading development as a connected progression, not as six isolated skills. For example:
  • How does oral language support phonological awareness?
  • How does phonological awareness prepare children for phonics?
  • How does phonics lead to fluency?
  • How does fluency support vocabulary growth and comprehension?
  • How do all six components work together to develop skilled readers?

A strong response will explain why each foundational skill is important and how it builds the foundation for later literacy development.

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Guiding Question 2

What is the connection between oral language acquisition, oral language proficiency, and learning to read?

What I am looking for:

• Explain the difference between oral language acquisition and oral language proficiency.
• Discuss how children's oral language development prepares them to become readers.
• Focus on the relationship between oral language and the early stages of reading development, including:
  • Phonological awareness
  • Phonics
  • Word recognition/decoding
  • Fluency
• Your discussion should explain how strong oral language skills create the foundation that allows children to learn to read successfully.
• While comprehension may be mentioned, the primary focus should be on how oral language supports the development of early reading skills rather than reading comprehension alone.

A strong response will clearly explain how oral language serves as the foundation upon which literacy skills are built.

Remember: This is a reflection of what you have learned throughout the course. I am looking for evidence that you understand how these literacy concepts work together to support children's reading development, not simply a list of definitions.