Reception and KS1 Phonics
Our primary aim is to teach the children the phonetic skills they require them to be able to blend and segment words fluently with the expectation that they will develop as fluent readers and writers as they progress through the school.
Our teaching of phonics is through the Supersonic Phonics Friends scheme where the children are introduced to characters who represent each skill needed for phonics, reading and writing. Supported by their Supersonic Phonic Friends, this approach will ensure that the children develop confidence and apply each of the skills taught to their own reading and writing.
Every day children will take part in a 20-30 minute phonics session within their class. These sessions will work through the phoneme (letter sound), grapheme (letter) and words with the phoneme in them. We will also learn tricky words that cannot be sounded out.
Children’s phonological awareness is regularly monitored to ensure progress is being made and those children who need a little extra support are identified and supported within school.
Phonic support in KS2
Children who require further phonic support in Key Stage Two follow the Toe-By-Toe programme to enable them to reach age related expectations.
Reading
Reception and Year 1 & 2 begin by following the Bug Club phonic-based reading scheme that has been adapted to meet the Supersonic Phonic Friends scheme. Once they complete Phase 5 books from Supersonic Phonic Friends, the children move onto Book Bands.
| Book Band Colours | |
|---|---|
| . | Green |
| . | Turquoise |
| . | Purple |
| . | Gold |
| . | White |
| . | Lime |
| . | Brown |
In Key Stage 2 (Year 3–6) children are assessed every term using the Accelerated Reader programme which allocates them a Book Level which starts at Level 1 (1.0 – 1.9). After reading their specifically levelled book, children are encouraged to take an online quiz. This assesses their understanding of the text and awards them individual and class points. There is a weekly class points competition and children collect their individual points towards becoming a Word Millionaire.
Parents have the option to register for online updates on their child’s quizzing results via ‘Homeconnect’. Details will be sent to parents about this when their child starts Year 3.
Tips for parents
Download this helpful PDF containing advice from bestselling author Jeremy Strong on reading with your children as well as important information on why your child should join a library.
Reading support
Pupils who are working below age-related expectations in reading all experience daily reading at school to support their progress. They may also access one-to-one tuition, Catch Up Reading and the five minute box for further support. Class teachers will decide what support is most appropriate and will be shared with parents.
How we promote reading
- All pupils have a reading record so that they can record their reading at home and receive encouragement in school
- All pupils are encouraged to read at home four or more times a week
- A reading raffle is held weekly for all pupils reading at home four or more times a week
- Use of Accelerated Reader to engage children to read and to improve acquisition of comprehension skills
- All classes have a termly spotlight on reading to promote genres and other aspects of reading
- We have special events through the school year with a focus on reading such as World Book Day
- All classes have a class novel every term
- All classes have a dedicated reading area
- Promote the Library Services Reading challenges
Any questions?
Please come into school at anytime to discuss any questions you may have about your child’s reading or progress. We want to work together to ensure your child achieves their potential.
