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The aim of our approach to English is to equip all pupils with the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding to be proficient readers and writers and to be ready for the next stage of their education. Reading lies at the heart of our approach. At Bardsey primary School, we follow the Little Wandle approach to phonics and early reading that draws on the latest research into how children learn best, how to ensure learning stays in children’s long term memory and how best to enable children to apply their learning to become highly competent readers. We encourage all children to read frequently and foster a love of reading. All children are given the support they need to become fluent, confident and inquisitive readers.

 

Why learning to read is so important:

· Reading is essential for all subject areas and improves imagination, concentration, creativity skills and vocabulary dramatically.

· Positive attitudes to reading and choosing to read for pleasure have academic, social and emotional benefits for pupils.

Reading full decodable books:

· Children must read books that are consistent with their phonic knowledge.

· Books MUST be fully decodable and follow the Little Wandle Scheme.

· Children need to read books in a progressive sequence until they can decode unfamiliar words confidently and fluently.

The role of Parents and Carers:

· Have a positive impact on their child’s reading.

· Should model the importance of reading practice to develop fluency.

· Children take home books they have read at school to re-read at home to build fluency.

· There are two different types of books that pupils bring home: reading practice and books to share for pleasure.

· Reading at home encourages a love of books, along with developing vocabulary and discussion.

· Parents should use voices, expression, discuss unfamiliar vocabulary, talk about the pictures, and predict what might happen next. 

· Give positive yet informative feedback in the home reading diary at least twice a week.

Supporting your child with reading:

Although your child will be primarily taught to read at school, you can have a huge impact on their reading journey by continuing their practice at home.

There are two types of reading book that your child may bring home:

1) A reading practice book. This will be at the correct phonic stage for your child. They should be able to read this fluently and independently.

2) A sharing book. Your child will not be able to read this on their own. This book is for you both to read and enjoy together for pleasure.

 

Sharing books:

In order to encourage your child to become a lifelong reader, it is important that they learn to read for pleasure. The sharing book is a book they have chosen for you to enjoy together. Please remember that you shouldn’t expect your child to read this alone. Read it to or with them. Discuss the pictures, enjoy the story, predict what might happen next, use different voices for the characters, explore the facts in a non-fiction book. The main thing is that you have fun together!

Programme Overviews:

 

 

Resources to Support Phonics at Home:

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