Young people will meet unfamiliar words that cannot be pronounced confidently at first sight. A decode-then-check routine encourages a sensible attempt while making accurate checking normal.

Make one informed attempt

When an unfamiliar word appears:

1. Mark the syllables.

2. Look for a familiar root, prefix or suffix.

3. Say the parts and blend the whole word.

4. Check the pronunciation using an online dictionary with a listen button, such as Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries.

5. Say the corrected word once and return to the task.

For industrialisation, the young person might mark industry, al, ise and ation, then check how the complete word is pronounced.

The first attempt does not need to be perfect. Its purpose is to use what they already know before checking.

Use the routine selectively

Do not stop for every unfamiliar word. Check words that are important to understanding the text, completing the homework or discussing the subject.

Parents can model the process once, then step back. A useful prompt is: “Which part do you recognise?” Avoid sounding out repeatedly when the word is irregular or the young person is becoming frustrated.

A dictionary check should confirm pronunciation and meaning, not replace all independent thought.

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