English
The aim for English in the National Curriculum is to promote high standards of language and literacy by equipping pupils with a strong command of the spoken and written language, and to develop their love of literature through widespread reading for enjoyment. The National Curriculum for English aims to ensure that all pupils:
- read easily, fluently and with good understanding
- develop the habit of reading widely and often, for both pleasure and information
- acquire a wide vocabulary, an understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language
- appreciate our rich and varied literacy heritage
- write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences
- use discussion in order to learn; they should be able to elaborate and explain clearly their understanding and ideas
- are competent in the arts of speaking and listening, making formal presentations, demonstrating to others and participating in debate
Phonics
In EYFS and Key Stage 1 we use the Read Write Inc. phonics scheme to teach phonics systematically and consistently.
Our reading scheme is linked to Read Write Inc so that children are only expected to read at home the sounds they have learnt in school. Once children are confident with their phonics knowledge and reading these books with fluency they are ready to move onto the Accelerated Reader system of book levels (usually by the end of Y2); once pupils are reading independently they are assessed at least termly on the Star reader program which provides staff with a ZPD (range of book levels that the pupil should be reading within) allowing children to read a range of genres as they progress, broadening the range of language that they encounter. Pupils choosing books within this ZPD can then 'quiz' on the books after reading them and this gives them (and the staff) feedback about their comprehension of the text and encourages children to read for meaning. As they move into Key Stage 2 all reading books are part of the Accelerated Reader system.
We also teach spelling systematically in our school, following on from the phonics scheme and ensuring pupils are taught the spelling patterns in the National Curriculum. All pupils from Y2 to Y6 have an age/ability appropriate structured spelling session 3-4 days per week.
Information for parents about reading
We have included below some information that parents might find useful regarding how to support reading or phonics at home. There is also information on how you can find books using Accelerated Reader . Click to open the relevant file:
