Phonics and reading in reception and key stage 1
Phonics
We believe all children can become fluent readers and competent writers. We follow the Twinkl phonics programme. This is a systematic, synthetic phonics programme. Children are taught how to break words up into their smallest sound (phonemes). They are taught to recognise the letters or groups of letters (graphemes) and to associate these with the sounds. They are then taught to blend the words for reading or segment them for writing.Twinkl phonics uses stories as a base for the learning and have actions for each of the sounds taught. Handwriting is also integrated into the lessons.
Phonics lessons
Children in reception, Year 1 and 2 all have daily phonics sessions lasting around 30 minutes. In reception the directed time is shorter to begin with but is quickly built up to the full length of time. All children have activities to do as part of their lesson, reinforcing the learning from the lesson. In reception and year 1 there are activities put out in provision to allow children to revisit and practice the skills they are learning within their phonics lesson.
Children are assessed regularly throughout the lessons and also more formally every half term to ensure everyone is making the expected progress. Children receive keep up lessons if required allowing them to have extra practice.
Children in year 2 receive regular phonics sessions if they do not pass the year 1 phonics test as do any children who we feel would benefit from this. If children in years 3-6 have identified gaps in their phonics, targeted sessions are put in place to address the areas in reading or writing where they need it.
Teaching of reading in reception and key stage 1.
All children following the phonics scheme read books that are closely linked to the phonics they are learning. Children who are assessed as needing extra support will be read as often as possible in school, often 1:1. All reading sessions are carefully planned and have a clear focus. We aim to develop:
- fluency and expression.
- comprehension - children reading for meaning.
In Malala class reading is taught in small groups (as soon as they are ready). Einstein reading is taught as a whole class.
Reading at home for reception and key stage 1
We encourage all children to read at home daily with their parents or carers. Regular practice has a huge impact on their journey to reading. Each child has a paper reading record that should be filled in each time you read with your child at home. This provides us with a record of your child's reading journey and ensures communication between home and school.
Each week children are sent home:
1. A book to read linked to the phonics they are learning.
2. A book that is from a slightly lower level to help develop their confidence and fluency.
3. All children also have the option of bringing home a book of their choice to share with you. Sharing books with you at home has also been shown to have a big impact on their reading ability.
Phonics information:
Please find some more detail about how we teach phonics, including a glossary, what content is taught in each level and when each level is taught.
Reading lists:
Please find a suggestion of books you may like to read with your child.