Reading, Phonics, Writing and Spelling.

How we teach phonics and reading:

Phonics is taught daily throughout EYFS and Years 1 and 2 and later if required, in a systematic, multi-sensory way.  Our pupils learn sounds, (phonics) by singing, moving, listening, writing, repeating, using letters, making shapes in the air, looking at pictures, playing games, using computers and many other ways using their 5 senses. Close monitoring and continuous regrouping ensures continual diagnostic assessment.  If children fall behind, they are given specific small group or 1:1 support.  We use the validated Systematic Synthetic Phonics (SSP) programme - Twinkl Phonics. This ensures that our approach is rigorous, systemic and endeavours to achieve strong results for all pupils.  Children take home Rhino Reader or Phonics Bug books that are closely matched to their phonics ability.  They are colour banded to follow the same progression as the Twinkl Phonics scheme. 

Phonics is only the first step to cracking the code of reading and writing.  Children also need to be able to recall words that cannot be sounded out and be able to understand what they read even when reading at speed. (fluency)  This is also recorded (as common exception words and words per minute) in Supporting Learning Books.

Class work is based on a range of diverse texts supplied by "The Literacy Tree".  Comprehension skills are developed through discussion, with adults, individually and in small groups or as a class.  Group and Whole Class Reading sessions take place regularly for younger pupils with at least weekly Whole Class Reading sessions (often using “VIPERS” as a text analysis tool) as children move through years 3 to 6.

Individual reading takes place daily and adults listen to children read throughout the week. at Collingwood with “Reading Buddies” for some children.  For younger pupils reading books is closely matched to phonics ability (Coloured band books).  Older children are encouraged to read a range of genres and authors and record these in their Supporting Learning Books.  Library books are completely free choice, aimed at fostering personal interest and enjoyment, so may not be something the child is able to read alone.

Our 3 O’Clock Read happens across the school every day (unless a P.E. day) and is specifically aimed at widening and developing pupils understanding of vocabulary and encouraging a love of reading.

Over the course of each term children read many different genres of text and learn at least one, one off by heart using actions, sound effects and drama.

The reading statements your child is currently working on and other personalised assessments can be found in your child’s "Supporting Learning Book" which should be kept in their book bag.