Approach to phonics & reading

Foundation/Key Stage 1

Children first learn their letter sounds and names then apply these to word building. We use the Floppy’s Phonics scheme as the basis for our teaching of phonics. The children will also learn a variety of other key words by sight, through a range of continuous provision opportunities.

Children read individually, in small groups and as a whole class. A variety of different genres are chosen at an appropriate level of ability for each group of children. As well as being able to read the text, children are encouraged to discuss the content of the book, and their opinions about people, places and events are sought. The more able readers will be asked about the varied themes of different texts.

Our core reading scheme is The Oxford Reading Tree. We supplement this with a huge variety of other literature. Teachers use these resources when they feel it will result in even more progress.

Key Stage 2

Through independent reading, shared reading in literacy lessons and cross-curricular sessions, guided reading groups and reading for pleasure, reading in Key Stage 2 develops and extends the skills acquired in Key Stage 1.

Children explore a wide variety of genres, both fiction and non-fiction which allows them to access, input ideas and understand what they are reading. They are given opportunities to speculate on the tone and purpose of texts they explore as well as to consider both the themes and audience.

In 2019, 84% of pupils achieved the expected standard in Reading at the end of KS2. 32% of pupils achieved greater depth. This led to 81% of pupils achieving the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Mathematics combined.

Phonics – How it is delivered at SPS

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