Non Basal First Grade

Our district has gone with Benchmark Universe instead of a more "common" basal for ELA. I am excited to get away from the traditional but am very apprehensive about our firsties adjusting to Benchmark. For example, it is assumed that all the kids entering first grade have a solid foundation in phonics. My class...not so much. We have reviewed the short vowels and consonants and now are entering the blends!

R Beginning Blends by Jean Brown Nelson

We will see! I am hoping a little picture sort will at least help them "hear" the beginning sounds.