Hearing the difference between the digraph sounds /sh/ and /ch/ is challenging for many dyslexic students. To further complicate, some adult student come from a French-speaking background, in which the CH sounds like /sh/.
Here are some steps to take:
1. Use movements and decibel levels to differentiate between the two sounds.
For CH, the keyword is chop, with a chopping movement. Make the /ch/ sound with some force, as you make the chopping movement.
For SH, the keyword is shhh, with a finger on the lips. Make the /sh/ sound softly, while simultaneously holding your index finger to your lips.
2. Micro-focus.
Spend a few lessons only focusing on one digraph. In every part of the lesson plan, choose words with SH. Make a note in the Lesson Log asking the other tutors to do the same. When the student has master SH, re-introduce CH.
3. Practice chaining
While working with tile letters, offer a series, or chain, of words, that all start with the digraph: ship... shin...shed... shop...shock.... shot, etc.
4. Don't give up!
It can seem like your student will never get it. They will. With micro-focus, repetition, and practice, it will happen. The brain just works this way. Don't give up.
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