PHONICS
Phonics is a way of teaching children how to read and write. It helps children hear, identify and use different sounds that distinguish one word from another in the English language. Phonics teaching provides a thorough and systematic approach to children learning to hear the 44 speech sounds, blend them together into words and segment words into sounds for writing.
We are a Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised School.
Phonics Progression Overview
This is the order and progression that we teach the letters and sounds in Reception and Class 1.
Click on the links below to hear how we say our sounds...
Phonics Grapheme Information Sheet
This is how we teach children to recognise, say and form the different phonemes (sounds) that they are learning...
When is phonics taught?
Phonics is taught daily in EYFS and Year 1. In Year 2, phonics sessions gradually progress to include opportunities to develop Grammar, Punctuation and Spelling skills (GPS). The length of the sessions steadily builds over time in Nursery. In other classes, discrete phonics sessions last for 15-30 minutes.
Assessment
Children are assessed at the end of each half term. This helps us to quickly identify any children who might need additional support and also ensures reading practise books are matched at the correct level to the child's phonic ability.
Towards the end of Year 1, children are assessed using the statutory Phonics Screening Check. This involves them using their phonic skills to read 40 words, some of which are real and some are made-up.
What happens if a child is not making expected progress in phonics?
If a child is not making expected progress in phonics they will be targeted for additional support. This may involve small group or individual sessions with experienced and skilled staff. If a child does not reach the expected standard in the Phonics Screening Check in Year 1, they will be targeted for additional support in Year 2 and will repeat the check towards the end of Year 2. If any children don’t meet the expected standard by the end of Year 2 they will be targeted for further support in KS2.
How does the reading scheme support phonic skills?
Our reading scheme for Reception and KS1, 'Collins Big Cat', has a strong phonics focus and provides decodable reading books for children to practise and further develop their phonic skills. Children have 3 reading practise sessions each week in school and take their book home to practise again.
How do we involve parents in supporting their children with phonics?
Teachers in Reception and Year 1 meet with parents to explain how we teach phonics in school. Phonic based games and activities are sent home to encourage parents to work with their children. Our Parental Support Adviser (PSA) also organises sessions for parents to provide guidance and fun ideas to support them with their child’s learning.
