Course Length
4 hours
|
Access
365 days from enrolment
|
Course Creator
Dr Katharyn Cullen
|
About this course
Phonology underpins the first steps into literacy, but it is much more than a simple code of sounds and letters. In this practical course, Dr Katharyn Cullen explores phonology as a foundation for spelling, reading and vocabulary development, helping educators move beyond narrow conceptions of phonics to develop a deeper understanding of how English works.
Grounded in contemporary literacy research and framed through the lens of the four spelling knowledges — phonology, orthography, morphology and etymology — this course equips teachers and leaders with practical knowledge and strategies for teaching phonology as a meaningful, equitable and engaging part of literacy instruction.
Participants will explore how knowledge of English sounds supports meaning-making, comprehension and disciplinary learning while strengthening students' understanding of spelling and word knowledge.
Looking for the complete learning experience?
This course forms part of Dr Katharyn Cullen's Four Spelling Knowledges Professional Learning Program. Enrol in the full program to explore phonology, orthography, morphology and etymology as an integrated approach to spelling and vocabulary instruction.
View the full program →
Learning outcomes
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Master the 44 phonemes that form the foundation of spoken English and understand how they are represented within a 26-letter alphabet.
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Analyse the 24 consonant phonemes and understand how articulation supports pronunciation and word formation.
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Explore the complexity of vowels and learn how to teach the 20 vowel phonemes of English.
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Refine approaches to teaching phonological sensitivity, phoneme awareness and phonetics.
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Connect phonology with orthography, morphology and etymology to understand its role within the broader system of English spelling, vocabulary and meaning.
Who should participate?
This is essential professional learning for anyone seeking to strengthen their knowledge of the role of phonology in spelling and reading across the primary years.
- Teachers Years F–6
- Literacy Leaders
- Heads of Curriculum
- Heads of Instruction
- Deputy and Assistant Principals with a passion for word knowledge
- EAL/D Coordinators
Please note: this is not an early reading phonics course. It is a spelling and word knowledge course taught through the lens of phonology and includes many upper primary case studies.
What else do I need to know?
- This PL course is self-paced and unmoderated.
- Participants have access for 365 days from registration.
- This course addresses AITSL standards 1.3.2, 2.1.2, 2.2.2, 2.5.2, 3.1.2, 3.2.2, 3.3.2 and 3.4.2.
- Group booking discounts apply for 6+ participants.
About your course creator
Dr Katharyn Cullen is an accomplished educational leader, innovator and curriculum specialist who holds a PhD in Using Linguistic Lenses to Improve Classroom Instruction. Her work focuses on helping educators understand the systems that underpin language, literacy and word knowledge.
She is the author of Using Linguistic Lenses to Journey into Words: A Teacher's Guide to Phonology, Orthography, Morphology and Etymology, a highly regarded resource for teachers and school leaders seeking to transform spelling and vocabulary instruction.
As a former Head of Junior School and Head of Campus (ELC–Year 6), Katharyn combines deep theoretical expertise with extensive leadership experience. Her practical, energetic and evidence-informed approach has helped schools strengthen teacher practice and improve student outcomes.
Course feedback
"An incredible and insightful course, one all schools should take part in. Dr Katharyn Cullen is so inspiring and her enthusiasm is contagious! Who knew the rabbit hole that is the English language could be so fun and engaging! I am so excited to complete her other courses and then bring this into my classroom. This is a MUST for all pre-service teachers and ones who need to fall back in love with words! 10/10!!"
— Demi, Temporary Relief Teacher (South Australia, PL Subscription School Member)
Cost of participation
| Registration Type |
Price |
| Member |
$140 |
| Non-Member |
$200 |
| PL Subscription School Member |
Included |
| Automatic group booking discount (6+) |
25% off each extra enrolment |
*all tickets must be booked at the same time for the discount to apply