Teach alphabet letter recognition. Using alphabet flashcards or tactile letters (such as alphabet blocks or refrigerator magnets) teach students the names of each letter. Point out each letter, say its name and have the child repeat the name. Repeat this lesson over a period of time until the child has mastered his letter recognition.
Teach single letter sounds or phonemes. Using alphabet flashcards, teach student three to four letter sounds each day until he can recite the letter name along with the letter sound each time he sees the flashcard his letter represents. Repeat with remaining alphabet letters and sounds.
Teach students the phonemes that groups of letters make such as SH, CK, PH and TH. Using alphabet blocks, explain to students how letter sounds can change when two letters are placed next to each other in a word. Give examples and test for understanding.
Test students' knowledge. Using short words that can be easily sounded out using typical phonics, test the ability of the students. For example, write the word 'cat' on a piece of paper and show the student. Have her sound out each letter individually and ask her if she knows what the word says. Repeat daily as a part of a successful phonics curriculum.
Incorporate phonics daily. When a student is stumped on what a word says, ask him to sound out the word and help him if it is a sight word that cannot be deciphered using phonics. While reading with a student, ask him to read the words that can be sounded out using phonics. Each time flashcards are practiced have the students say the name and the sound that the letter makes.