Phonics
At St Wulstan's we use Read Write Inc to teach phonics.
What is Read Write Inc?
Read Write Inc (RWI) is a consistent, rigorous and dynamic literacy programme to teach EVERY child to read by the age of six. Using synthetic phonics, children quickly learn to blend letter sounds together following a fun and effective programme.
An overview of Read Write Inc Phonics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6dSsXkD1wM
FOUNDATION STAGE AND KEY STAGE 1
The ‘Read Write Inc’ phonics programme plays a large part in the teaching of reading at these stagesto enable our children to make a swift start to their reading journey.
Children begin their reading journey in Reception using the ‘Read Write Inc. Phonics’ programme - which focuses on the lively and vigorous teaching of synthetic phonics. Children begin to learn the 44 common sounds in the English language and how to segment and blend simple cvc (consonant, vowel, consonant) words. When the children reach their Reception year they are taught in ability groups which are reassessed and regrouped every half term. The children are encouraged to start to use their phonic knowledge to support and enhance their early writing and letter formation.
Children begin the formal and the directed learning of the letter shapes and their formation in Reception. Whilst the children are ability grouped primarily for the reading aspect of RWInc, the programme includes daily writing of both the letters and cvc words being read in the session. These begin with a series of sentences known as ‘ditties’ moving onto ‘books’, where the majority of our Year 1 children would be expected to complete a ‘piece of writing’. At this point the balance of RWInc sessions becomes more evenly weighted between reading and writing in order to address the specific needs of our children in relation to their identified weaknesses in writing.
When the children begin to learn their vowel sounds, they then engage with lively storybooks and non-fiction books with words they can decode, so they achieve early success in reading.
When children have completed the ’Read Write Inc. Phonics’ programme, teachers then encourage children to read widely and often, as well as literature which will enhance their vocabulary growth.
In Year 2 children who still require phonic support still receive the programme in a ‘booster group’ session in addition to their daily English lesson.
Year 1 Phonic Screening – National Testing
At the end of Year 1, children are tested in their phonic reading skills. Parents are informed of the results of the test. Children who do not pass the test in Year 1 repeat it in Year 2.
The screening test consists of some real words and some made up words to ensure that the children are using their phonic knowledge. The children will have a chance to complete similar activities in class so that they are ready for the test in June.
Click here for the Parent Leaflet on Year 1 Phonics Screening
Click here for Phonics Policy
The official Read Write Inc website, www.oup.com/oxed/primary/rwi/provides all the information you need to support your child through the programme. You can also speak to your class teacher if you have any queries.