English – Reading and Phonics
In our school, we will strive to give pupils a stimulating environment, where reading materials are presented in an attractive and inviting way. Furthermore, within reading lessons we create an environment that stimulates the generation of ideas from texts where all ideas are accepted and valued. Teachers will act as role models in their enthusiasm for both reading and writing by keeping up to date with current children’s literature.
Reading in Early Years
Reading is a high priority within Early Years and underpins everything we do. This includes making sure topics taught are built around a wide selection of books linked to children’s interests. In Reception, children are taught the technical skills of reading through discrete Phonics lessons following Letters and Sounds. Children are also taught how to talk about books through whole class Guided Reading. Books chosen for Guided Reading sessions are carefully selected to extend our children’s learning experiences and interests as well as to provide them with opportunities to deepen their cultural capital.
Reading in KEY STAGES 1 & 2
Children in Years 1-4 continue to be supported with developing their reading fluency, accuracy and stamina as well as the progression of comprehension skills. This is achieved through both group and whole-class reading sessions and reading for pleasure. In key stage 2, children develop on their prior learning on phonics by continuing to use phonetics strategies, as well as etymology and patterns in language.
In Key Stage One children take part in daily discrete Phonics lessons, as well as a discrete reading session every week. The children build their phonics knowledge into all they do throughout the day too, practising their skills at every opportunity. In Key Stage two children take part in daily discrete guided reading sessions linked to their whole class book. Through carefully chosen structured books that interest and inspire, the children challenge their thinking and extend their learning.
All of our Reading units are planned around up to date, relevant, high quality texts to ensure our pupils are immersed in quality literature. You will find our yearly Reading reading text overview below.
English – Writing
At Whittonstall we want our children to become articulate and imaginative communicators and enthusiastic and engaged writers. Our curriculum strives to make writing interesting and exciting and provide a range of writing opportunities both in English lessons and across the curriculum. Our writing units start with a book or film hook and provide a real purpose for writing which piques imagination and creativity. Teachers use both ‘talk for writing’ approaches and The Literacy Shed to bring learning to life. By giving children the context to learning and providing opportunities to write in all aspects of the curriculum, we hope children understand the value of writing now and in their futures.
