Reading & Phonics
The teaching of phonics and reading begins in our Early Years and continues throughout school. Our phonic teaching is based on the Read Write inc. programme and takes place daily in Reception Class and in Years 1 and 2.
Reading scheme materials are used to support the teaching of reading, predominantly from the Read, Write inc scheme, supplemented with other resources such as Big Cat and Oxford Reading Tree. Our reading resources are banded using a system of levels used across the UK and beyond. This helps us to select books from different reading schemes with confidence, knowing that they are the right level for your child. We also use 'real' books as the children progress through the various book bands. A variety of texts are used in Guided Reading sessions; we have invested in quality Project 'X' materials for Key Stage Two, which are designed especially with boys in mind.
The books in our school library are electronically catalogued, using Junior Librarian. In addition, we use Accelerated Reader for children in Years 2-6. This programme helps us to assess and track pupils’ reading development as it happens outside of our teacher-led Guided Reading sessions. Apart from taking regular on-line reading assessments, pupils will complete a quiz after they have read each book; the programme covers over 25,000 titles! As well as testing their understanding of the text, it helps them to think about the vocabulary in the book and suggests other books that would be suitable for them. We are able to access their profile and track their reading. The programme also helps us to give staff and parents a more detailed picture of each child’s reading development but, above all, provides the children with a structured approach to their reading, using a choice of quality, real books to enjoy. Some of our older children are taking on increasing responsibility for the day-to-day running of the library and help us to select new titles to add to our stock of books.
For more information about Accelerated Reader, click HERE
