A new approach to basic literacy and language skills

After research, discussion and reflection, the department has adapted an approach to the teaching of reading and writing using synthetic phonics. The strategy was implemented in February 2007. An evening meeting for parents took place recently when the philosophy and methods of our scheme, 'Read, Write, Inc.', were explained to a full house. The question and answer session was lively and the feeling at the end of the meeting was very positive. In fact one parent asked why the meeting had not been made compulsory for parents whose children will be involved! Click here to download an information pack

Key Elements of the 'Read, Write, Inc.' scheme:

READING

The children:

• learn 44 sounds and the corresponding letters/letter groups using simple picture prompts
• learn to read words using sound blending
• read lively stories featuring words they have learned to sound out
• show that they comprehend the stories by answering 'Find It' and 'Prove It'  discussion questions

WRITING

The children:

• learn to write the letters/letter groups which represent the 44 sounds
• learn to write words by saying the sounds and graphemes
• write simple sentences
• compose stories based on picture strips
• compose a range of texts using discussion prompts

TALKING

The children:

are assessed so they work with children at the same level. This allows them to take a full part in all lessons.  They work in pairs so that they:

• answer every question
• practise every activity with their partner
• take turns in talking to each other
  

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