21TRA485 Phonological Awareness – Sounds for Speech and Reading

Speech difficulties, phonics, dyslexia, literacy outcomes - what’s the common denominator? Phonological awareness skills! Distinct from phonemic awareness, phonological awareness are the fundamental skills you may never have heard of. By providing your students with strong phonological awareness skills, you are providing them with the foundations for future success in many areas.  

In this session we will cover: 

• How to assess phonological awareness skills?
• Who has difficulty with phonological awareness?
• The link between phonological awareness and speech
• The link between phonological awareness and dyslexia
• How to support it these skills in the classroom
• How to target skills in 1:1 or small group activities

The webinar is most suitable for SNAs, class teachers, learning support teachers who work with early primary school (Junior Infants up to 2nd Class).

Presenter Bio: Alanna O' Connor

Presenter Bio: Alanna O' Connor

Alanna O’Connor is a Kerry-based Speech and Language Therapist, who trained in the UK. In her time in Manchester, she worked based in a school and college, working alongside teachers to support students to meet their educational potential. Since returning to Ireland, she has worked with children and young people in clinic, home, and school environments. Last year, she delivered online training to over 1’000 education staff. 

Alanna has worked with children and young people with autism spectrum disorder throughout her career. She has experience of diagnosing autism and providing intervention in home, clinics, and schools. Alanna works hard to take on board the opinions and feedback of autistic people, as well as providing neurodiversity-affirming support.