Phonics, Reading, Writing, Numbers K4 Curriculum Lesson Plans

Specifically designed for parents and a homeschooling environment, Abeka Lesson Plans are user-friendly, detailed, daily lesson plans. They have “just-enough" introductory and overview information to set the stage for a solid learning environment. This overview information includes a synopsis of each lesson component (phonics, reading, handwriting, numbers, and seatwork). An overall scope and sequence as well as sample schedules round out the introduction. K4 Phonics provides systematic instruction covering short vowels and their sounds; consonants and their sounds, vowel/consonant blending, and one vowel words. Towards the end of the year, long vowels and some of the special sounds (blends) are introduced.

Daily lessons incorporate ABC-123, the Little Books, Animal Friends Books, and Writing with Phonics K4 as well as Letter Picture Flashcards and Charts and Games. Skills Development (visual perception, listening/thinking skills, motor coordination) lessons are also included regularly. Occasionally, these will reference additional printed materials but typically are games and activities.

From the very beginning lesson, there is a whole child approach. Time in the beginning lessons is spent on habits and routines before settling into the systematic content presentation that earmarks the later lessons. For each of the subject areas, there are preparation notes (what materials are needed) and procedure notes (review – instruction – application). These are brief and to the point. They reference the material being used and give suggestions for how to coordinate the instruction through the various components.

The primary focus of the daily lessons is the reading (phonics), writing, and arithmetic instruction. Each of these lessons start with a warm-up/review before covering the instructional material. Application (practice exercises) complete the lesson. Reading lessons are practice from the readers followed by comprehension questions. Many lessons (but not all) include seatwork from these basic instructional areas providing additional practice.

There are 170 lessons. Usually, each covers 1-2 pages of the Curriculum/Lesson Plans. The lessons are easy to follow and designed to be covered in a comfortable 40-45 minutes without the more involved Skills Development Activities. The biggest challenge will be to give yourself permission to be flexible. A normal tendency when faced with detailed lesson plans and a series of instructional points is to become so focused on checking things off that you lose sight of the educational opportunities to connect with your children in a meaningful way.

The reference sections and appendices are packed with helpful lists, collections, and resources. Included: phonics word lists, suggested writing comments, cursive formation guide, oral phonics evaluation information, blend ladders, and planning calendars.