Guidelines for Using Memory Aids
Our memory aids are designed to mirror the auditory and visual aspects of letters, enhancing both sound and shape recognition. Should you opt to utilize these aids, we suggest emphasizing their specific Names rather than the traditional Vowel names like Kametz, Patach, and Tzeireh. Once the student becomes proficient in identifying letters with these aids, we recommend a gradual phase-out of the memory aids, transitioning to practice with the vowels in their traditional forms.
Kamatz / Patach - Aviron (Airplane)
The image of an Aviron (Airplane) with one wing resembles the vowel Kamatz, while an Aviron without wings mirrors the vowel Patach. Once your child starts identifying these images as Avirons, begin with practicing the first 'Ah' sound of Aviron. After they're comfortable with this initial sound, progressively introduce more letters.
Tzeireh / Segol - Einaim (Eyes)
The shape of the Tzeireh and Segol resemble the image of Einayim (Eyes)— whether just the Eyes alone or Eyes with a Nose. Once your child starts identifying these images as Einayim, begin with practicing the first 'Eh' sound of Einayim. After they're comfortable with this initial sound, progressively introduce more letters.
Chirik - Igul (Circle)
The shape of the Chirik resembles the image of an Igul (Circle). Once your child starts identifying this image as an Igul, begin with practicing the first “ee” sound of Igul. After they're comfortable with this initial sound, progressively introduce more letters.
Cholam - Ozen (Ear)
The shape of the Cholam resembles the image of an Ozen (Ear) whether the Cholam is with the letter Vov or not, we call them both Ozen. Once your child starts identifying this image as an Ozen, begin with practicing the first “O” sound of Ozen. After they're comfortable with this initial sound, progressively introduce more letters.
Shuruk / Kubutz - Ugiya / Ugiyot (Cookie, Cookies)
The shape of the Shuruk and Kubutz resemble the images of an Ugia and Ugiyot (Cookie & Cookies). Once your child starts identifying these images as an Ugia/Ugiyot, begin with practicing the first “Oo” sound of Ugiya. After they're comfortable with this initial sound, progressively introduce more letters.