Writing before Reading

Another article in the September issue of ASCD’s Educational Leadership is entitled “Why Phonics Teaching Must Change.” It explains why writing should be taught before reading because the Encoding is easier than Decoding. When I went through my Montessori training and was told Montessorians always teach writing before reading, I had never really thought about it. But it makes sense to every parent I’ve ever explained it to. It’s easier to start with a word you know than one you don’t. Another instance of more modern research proving Montessori’s experiences correct. When will this catch on?