Word Mapping Tool
Since the brain’s working memory can only do so many things at once, recognizing the sounds
represented by letters and letter combinations by orthographically mapping a word helps readers to
automatically recall and read words. Continued exposure and practice with mapping will, over time,
eliminate the need to decode every word, thus freeing up the brain’s working memory to process and
understand what is being read.
Orthographic mapping provides a physical way to represent the relationship between phonemes and
graphemes. It is a mental process that requires readers to say the word slowly and listen for the
individual sounds the letters or letter combinations represent. The number of sounds in a word tells us
how many sound boxes the word will need when mapping.
Looking for an online tool to help when mapping words? We found one we think you will like!
Looking for other phonics related teaching tools? Check out the other options this site offers, here.