Learning to Read
Learning to read: Reception, Year 1 and Year 2
At East Dene Primary School, we use a synthetic phonics programme called Read, Write, Inc. Read, Write, Inc. is a method of learning centred around letter sounds and phonics, blending them together to read and write words and using these learnt sounds in their reading and writing. Using Read, Write, Inc. 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 focus on composing what they write.
The children are assessed and grouped according to their ability and they work with a teacher or teaching assistant in a small group. The children are continuously assessed by the Reading Leader, to ensure that they move through the programme at a good pace. At the end of each half term all children are assessed and then put into new groups according to their phonic knowledge and fluency when reading.
| Intent | Implementation | Impact |
| Word reading Children learn a simple alphabetic code followed later by a more complex code. All reading books progress cumulatively, matched to the sounds children know. Language comprehension – We help children to enjoy stories and poems from the minute they come into school. We know and love the books we read aloud, so children will want to hear the same story again and again. – We use similar emphases and intonation on each reading, so children can join in the retelling. – Our picture books are for all children, whether they can read or not. For those who are still learning to read, we help them retell the story. For children who are able to read, we encourage them to enjoy reading and to retell the story events. | Word Reading – We organise Read Write Inc. books and resources in a central area. – All books read in RWI lessons progress according to the children’s phonic knowledge and skills. – There are boxes of RWI book bag books for the children to take home. – All home reading books are decodable, linked with each stage of the children’s phonic knowledge. Language Comprehension – Each RWI story book includes key comprehension questions. – As a staff, we share stories to children with love, confidence and enjoyment, every day. – We organise parent workshops to support parents and ensure that they understand how important story time is at home. | Word reading We aim for Read Write Inc. phonics to be redundant for the majority of our children, by the end of the Autumn Term in Year 2. However identified Year 2 and KS2 children who still require further support with phonics, also access RWI. Language comprehension Teachers – know the importance of reading stories to their children every day – know how to engage children in stories when reading aloud. Parents – know the importance of reading stories to their children at home – know how to read stories to their children – read with their children most evenings. Children – are able to read books in line with their phonic knowledge and with increasing fluency. – enjoy listening to stories and poems – can join in with many stories and poems – learn new vocabulary |