Phonics
At Danetree we aim to make every child a reader as early as possible.
The Government strongly recommends the use of synthetic phonics when teaching early literacy skills to children. We are using the Read Write Inc (RWI) programme to get children off to a flying start with their English. RWI is a method of learning based upon letter sounds and phonics, and we use it to aid children in their reading and writing. Reading opens the door to learning. A child who reads a lot will become a good reader. A good reader will be able to read more challenging material. A child who can read more challenging material is a child who will learn. The more a child learns, the more he or she will want to find out.
Expectations of progress Our goal is for children to:
1. Work out unfamiliar words quickly – including new vocabulary and names.
2. Read familiar words speedily – that is, words they have been taught.
3. Read texts - including the words they have been taught – fluently.
Please note: these are the expectations for the lowest 20% of children. Other children should be well in advance of this. All children should achieve these expectations, if they have followed the programme from Reception.
Intent
At Danetree, we recognise that fluency in the English language is essential in every subject. We are determined that every pupil will learn to read, regardless of their background, needs or abilities. We aim to engage and excite pupils with books as soon as they begin their journey with us.
Reading opens the door to learning. A child who reads a lot will become a good reader. A good reader will be able to read more challenging material. A child who reads challenging material is a child who will learn. The more a child learns, the more he or she will want to find out.
Implementation
At Danetree we use the Read Write Inc (RWI) programme to get children off to a flying start with their literacy. RWI is a method of learning focused on letter sounds and phonics, and we use it to aid children in their reading and writing.
Using RWI, the children learn to read effortlessly so that they can put all their energy into comprehending what they read. It also allows them to spell effortlessly so that they can put all their energy into composing what they write.
When using RWI to read the children will:
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learn 44 sounds and the corresponding letter/letter groups using simple picture prompts
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learn to read words using Fred Talk
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read lively stories featuring words they have learned to sound out
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show that they comprehend the stories by answering questions.
When using RWI to write the children will:
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learn to write the letters/letter groups which represent 44 sounds.
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learn to write words by saying the sounds in Fred Talk
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write simple sentences
Children take part in daily phonics sessions in smaller groups where they participate in speaking, listening, spelling and reading activities that are matched specifically to their ability. Teachers complete continuous observations and assessments to ensure children are challenged and to identify children who may need additional support. In addition, the early reading lead will regularly assess each child to identify children’s progress and ensure children are grouped appropriately. One to one tutoring is planned for children who are working below expected levels.
Impact
At Danetree, we are committed to all children becoming fluent, confident and enthusiastic readers. The impact of phonics teaching is evident through all areas of learning. Children have opportunities to apply their phonetic knowledge to other subjects and develop their fluency and comprehension as they progress through school. Phonics attainment is measured through The Phonics Screening Test, termly assessments, Reading and Writing Early Learning Goal (EYFS) and reading milestones.
