Enhancing Receptive and Expressive Language Skills through the Phonomimic Method in Kindergarten

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 1:45 pm - Gold 4
  In Roundtable Session: Multimodal Literacies: Visual, Digital, and Oral Perspectives

Abstract

Abstract
This study investigates the effectiveness of the phonomimic method—a multisensory instructional approach integrating sound, symbol, and gesture—in enhancing phonological awareness in kindergarteners. A total of 230 children participated in a 10-month intervention, with pre- and post-assessments of receptive and expressive language abilities. Results revealed significant gains in both the intervention and control groups; however, children exposed to the phonomimic method demonstrated substantially greater improvements, particularly in receptive phonological skills. The proportion of above-average performers rose from 3% to 61%, while the number of low performers dropped sharply. The findings highlight the method’s capacity to support diverse learners, bridge developmental gaps, and foster language acquisition through embodied, multimodal learning. Implications extend to early literacy instruction and inclusive educational practice.

Authors

• Renata Kiss, University of Szeged

• Dora Mokri, University of Szeged

• Margit Fazekasné Fenyvesi, Károli Gáspár University of the Reformed Church