Literacy Model
Spelling. The evolution of the Reading for Sure™ program into The Solomon Method - a Comprehensive Literacy Model, was inevitable, when it was observed that, while reading was achievable with pupils who were previously predicted as reading failures, more problems became evident in spelling. The Spelling for Sure Workbook was introduced with the unique approach of confronting the irregularity in English words, rather than attempting to find patterns and rules that would erroneously appear to regularise the English alphabet .
Spelling errors become noticeable when the pupil begins to write.
Writing. Legible hand writing requires standard formations in transmitting words by hand, with tools (including the human hand) designed for hand writing. The act of writing as transmission of thought to print which is understandable by others, is an accomplishment that requires instruction and practice: so “handwriting” is included as a vital component of a comprehensive literacy model .
The purposes of writing include the ability to give written answers to questions on the meaning of text.
Comprehension. Reading without meaning is a counter-productive activity . Specific attention to “comprehension” as a subject in its own right is a component of The Solomon Method as soon as reading begins. It continues in more complex forms to be central to a comprehensive literacy model.
Composition and grammar. Eventually practice and instruction in writing will lead to creative composition , an ultimate goal of any literacy model. Written ideas cannot be communicated effectively without an understanding of shared conventions in the structure of the English language, referred to as grammar.
All of these disciplines are considered as essentials in the acquisition of literacy in The Solomon Method - A Comprehensive Literacy Model which is summarised in the following diagram.
