Phonics

At Darton Primary, we use the systematic phonics scheme, Read Write Inc, it is a well-established and consistent approach to the teaching of early reading. It is taught at 9am every day within carefully selected groups led by well-trained and experienced members of staff.  Children have access to phonic books that are closely matched to their increasing knowledge of phonics and ‘tricky’ words. As children re-read the stories over a sequence of lessons, their fluency (and confidence) increases. The children take home phonic reading books on a weekly basis.

Our long term aim is for children to become fluent readers by the end of Key Stage One.

At Darton, the Early reading and Phonics Lead will carry out half termly RWInc assessments (Reception, Year 1 & Year 2) to ensure that children are taught within groups that match their phonic ability. These assessments are also used to identify individuals who need additional support to keep up with the program. These children receive either 1:1 or small group tutoring in addition to the daily phonics teaching.

Every year, attainment in phonics is measured by the statutory Phonics Screening Test at the end of Year 1.

Read Write Inc. Phonics

Information for parents

Read Write Inc. Phonics is a complete literacy programme, for 3 to 7 year-olds learning to read and write and for 7 and 8 year-olds needing to catch up quickly. Although reading is taught using synethic phonics, the programme is so much more than that. It covers all of the new National Curriculum requirements for language and literacy.

Programme progression:

In Nursery, children learn the first 30 sounds in short daily sesions.

In Reception all children:

  • ​Read storybooks and non-fiction books closely matched to their developing phonic knowledge
  • Take home Phonics storybooks to share
  • Read with fluency and expression
  • Learn to spell using known sounds
  • Write confidently by practising what they want to write out loud first
  • Work well with a partner.

 

By the end of Year 1 all children are accurate and speedy readers and ready to move onto our Literacy and Language programme.

Fidelity to the teaching programme, rigorous assessment, tracking and tutoring ensure that schools can guarantee progress for every child. One-to-one tutoring ensures that no children are left behind. Children have positive early experiences of learning to read – they are successful and progress quickly.