Identifying a phonics curriculum that could meet the needs of kindergarten to third grade students is critical for a school. A developmentally appropriate phonics program needs to meet state standards while providing remediation for students who are behind, support for second language learners, and differentiation for students with developmental delays. Curriculum is not selected by one school faculty member, but by a committee.

You have been placed on a committee tasked with selecting a quality phonics program for K-3 grade students in your school. Identify three research-based, developmentally appropriate phonics programs for the committee to review.

Create a matrix comparing these programs, including the following information:

• Name and publisher of the program
• How each program aligns with state standards
• How each program is developmentally appropriate  for K-3 students
• How the program meets the diverse needs of students in learning to read, write, and communicate
• Evidence-based information demonstrating the effectiveness of the program
• How the program supports struggling readers in Grades 4-8

In a 250 word reflection, discuss which program you would recommend and why. Are there any gaps in the curriculum? If so, how will you fill those gaps? If no gaps are present, include an explanation of how the program encompasses all phonics skills.