After SATPIN, the rest of the alphabet is introduced in small groups of 4, same pattern as Stage 1: sound first, blending practice with real words as soon as a group is secure. There are 25 single-letter sounds in total (not 26) — "q" is never taught alone, because in English it's always followed by "u" and pronounced as the digraph "qu" (queen, quick).
Why this stage matters
This stage completes the child's sound inventory. By the end, every consonant and short vowel sound is automatic, which is the prerequisite for Stage 3's real skill — blending three and four sounds together at speed.
How long it usually takes
4–8 weeks, introducing 4 new sounds roughly every 4–6 days alongside daily review of everything taught so far.
The most common struggle
Reversing similar-looking letters (b/d, p/q) — common and usually resolves with more reading practice, not extra drilling. Read more →