Reading
Reading and Phonics at Neston Primary School
Phonics
At Neston Primary School, early reading is taught using synthetic phonics as the main approach to reading. Pupils are systematically taught phonemes (sounds), how to blend the sounds for word reading. They are taught how to segment the sounds in order to write words. They are taught to use their phonic skills and knowledge as their first approach to reading, but are also taught high frequency words, which do not completely follow the phonic rules.
In order to teach phonics we use a programme called Read, Write Inc. Children start the programme in Summer Term of Nursery (F1), the programme continues until it is completed. Typically Autumn Term Year 2, any children who need to complete will stay on the programme. Each child takes RWI phonically decodable book and a Love for Reading book each week. When children reach Purple Level they will also take a book to improve Stamina and Fluency.
Phonics/Speed sounds – 20 minutes
Reading - 20 minutes
In Year 2 Spring Term Pathways to read is introduced, to improve comprehension. 15 minutes of reading daily happens in the classroom.
Expectations for Foundation Stage and KS1
End of F2 – Completed Red and read to begin Green Level
End of Year 1 – Completed Yellow and read to begin Blue Level
End of Autumn Term Year 2 – Complete programme (Grey)
Accelerated Reader
In KS2 children use Accelerated Reader. Children will take their book home and back into school every day. Children’s Star Test is completed in September, December, March and June. Half termly reports are used to monitor progress. Rewards are given for children half termly.
All children will use rulers when reading to focus, and will read daily. A teacher or Teaching Assistant will listen to each child read at least once a fortnight individually. Some children will be listened to more regularly (bottom 20% daily).
Each child has their own target set, which is matched to their ability. Children read and quiz and books at their own level. The children receive certificates and are entered into a raffle when they reach their individual target.
We follow the Pathways to Read which focuses on 5 key components – Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Fluency, Vocabulary, Comprehension
We teach Shared Reading on Wednesdays in all KS2 classrooms. Children complete reading sessions at their own level at least once a week.
Reading for Pleasure
At Neston Primary School, we encourage pupils to develop a love for reading by having well stocked library corners in each classroom, strong links with Neston library, ‘Paws and Read’ with a reading dog and having volunteers who come into school to listen to pupils reading. We also have a very successful Book Swap Shop that is open each week. Children are able to borrow a book each week and return it the following week. The books in the swap shop are regularly added too and the new books are highlighted in assemblies and in classes.
We also support and actively promote the local libraries Summer Reading Scheme. We have also organised Extreme Reading competitions and participate in World Book Day each year.
