Differing from other phonetic theories, FAST Phonics provides very few symbols. (Over burdening the student with a lengthy listing of cryptic symbols that must be “decoded” in order to pronounce English words is counter productive.) Instead, FAST Phonics emphasizes the sounding of each symbol using simple phonics rules with examples presented in neutral, North American pronunciation (accent). There are a total of 18 vowel sounds (including short vowel sounds and long vowel sounds).