This course introduces pre-service (students) and in-service (professionals to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary's phonetic transcription system as an essential tool for improving literacy instruction. Integrating the Simultaneous Tri Multi-Sensory Instructional Procedures (TM) and Pure & Complete Phonics (TM), the curriculum is designed to comprehensively teach the entire sound structure of the American English Language through direct and structured instruction. Students will delve into how phonetic transcriptions in the Merriam-Webster dictionary enhances pronunciation, spelling development, and reading fluency. The course is structured to provide interactive lessons, hands-on phonetic transcription exercises, and dictionary-based literacy strategies. Through these components, students will acquire practical knowledge and skills in phonetic symbols, word encoding and decoding, and multi-sensory instructional techniques. The program is specifically tailored to meet the needs of diverse learning populations, including students with dyslexia and English language learners, ensuring that all students gain the tools necessary for effective literacy instruction. [ 3 credits ]