What is the first step in the prescribed sequence for teaching phonics skills?

The first step in teaching phonics skills is naming the letters. This foundational step is critical because it establishes a clear understanding of the alphabet, which is essential for later phonics instruction. When students can accurately name the letters, they begin to develop a connection between the letters and their corresponding sounds, which is a crucial aspect of phonics. This knowledge lays the groundwork for recognizing letters in words and understanding their role in spelling and reading. Without this initial step, students may struggle to progress in their phonics skills, as they need to have a solid grasp of the alphabet to move on to identifying sounds, distinguishing between consonants and vowels, and understanding word structure.