Intent
At St Breward School we believe in supporting every child to learn to read and develop a love of reading. All children are provided with a curriculum for phonics and time is given to ensure no children are left behind, through our comprehensive intervention programme.
Reading is complex: it is more than just word recognition. Comprehension plays a vital role in reading too. Comprehension starts with our understanding of oral language and develops rapidly on the back of word and sentence reading.
Both of these are strong reasons for children learning to build words from their letter-sound components at an early age, when their brains are at their most plastic. For this reason we have chosen Little Wandle for our phonics scheme, since it is based arounds these principles.
Key points:
- Focused attention: preferably for short periods, regularly and frequently repeated.
- Active engagement: continual expectation of children in chorus and individual oral response.
- Error feedback: errors are best countered by a teacher modelling the correct response.
- Practise and consolidation: small items of learning are practised and repeated many times.
Implementation
Children in Reception and KS1 follow Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised phonics programme and read books which are closely matched to their phonics ability. Phonics sessions happen first thing each day, with children grouped according to age and ability.
Supporting your child with reading
Although your child will be taught to read at school, you can have a huge impact on their reading journey by continuing their practice at home.
There are two types of reading book that your child may bring home:
A reading practice book. This will be at the correct phonic stage for your child. They should be able to read this fluently and independently.
A sharing book. Your child will not be able to read this on their own. This book is for you both to read and enjoy together.
Reading practice book
This book has been carefully matched to your child’s current reading level. If your child is reading it with little help, please don’t worry that it’s too easy – your child needs to develop fluency and confidence in reading.
Listen to them read the book. Remember to give them lots of praise – celebrate their success! If they can’t read a word, read it to them. After they have finished, talk about the book together.
Sharing book
In order to encourage your child to become a lifelong reader, it is important that they learn to read for pleasure. The sharing book is a book they have chosen for you to enjoy together.
Please remember that you shouldn’t expect your child to read this alone. Read it to or with them. Discuss the pictures, enjoy the story, predict what might happen next, use different voices for the characters, explore the facts in a non-fiction book. The main thing is that you have fun!
Phonics support for parents
Impact
Little Wandle has helped children at our school to gain a love of reading, through the engaging and decodable books provided.
Children are assessed regularly to ensure they are making progress and are working on the most suitable sounds. In Year 1, children take part in the Phonics Screening Check. This is carried out in your child's normal setting, with their class teacher and as a result they might not be aware it is happening. For more information on this see the link below:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/phonics-screening-check-information-for-parents
