Phonics
How we teach the early reading skills
As a school, we teach synthetic phonics as the initial, and most important, approach to the teaching of reading. Our pupils learn to read and write effectively using the Read Write Inc (RWI) Phonics Programme which is a systematic programme for the teaching of phonics, reading, spelling and writing. We want all pupils to begin their journey to read with confidence, develop a love of reading and apply their skills competently to writing.
We aim to ensure that all pupils:
- Decode letter-sound correspondences quickly and effortlessly, using their phonic knowledge and skills
- Read common exception words on sight
- Understand what they read
- Read aloud with fluency and expression
- Write confidently, with a strong focus on vocabulary and grammar
- Spell quickly and easily by segmenting the sounds in words
- Learn letter formation and handwriting skills.
The RWI programme is delivered to:
• Pupils in EYFS to Year 2 who are learning to read and write
• Any pupils in Years 2, 3 and 4 who need to catch up rapidly
• Struggling readers in Years 5 and 6 follow Read Write Inc. Fresh Start.
Pupils are taught to work effectively with a partner to explain and consolidate what they are learning. This provides the teacher with opportunities to assess learning and to pick up on difficulties, such as pupils’ poor articulation, or problems with blending or alphabetic code knowledge.
We group pupils homogeneously, according to their progress in reading rather than their writing. This is because it is known that pupils’ progress in writing will lag behind progress in reading, especially for those whose motor skills are less well developed.
In Reception, we emphasise the alphabetic code. The pupils rapidly learn sounds and the letter or groups of letters they need to represent them. Simple mnemonics help them to grasp this quickly. This is especially useful for pupils at risk of making slower progress. This learning is consolidated daily. Pupils have frequent practice in reading high frequency words with irregular spellings (common exception words).
Creating a culture of reading at home
Reading at home is crucial for primary school children, as it significantly enhances children's literacy and cognitive development. Research consistently shows that children who are regularly read to at home develop improved language skills, a broader vocabulary, and a deeper understanding of complex sentence structures compared to their peers who are not read to. These early literacy experiences lay the foundation for future academic success and a lifelong love of reading. Additionally, reading together fosters a strong parent-child bond, promotes a positive attitude towards learning, and encourages curiosity and imagination. By integrating reading into daily routines, parents can create a supportive and enriching environment that bolsters their child's educational journey and overall development.
Letter Formation