Phonics

Phonics

What is phonics?

Phonics is a strategy used to teach children how to read. It runs alongside other teaching methods such as guided reading and shared reading to help children develop reading skills. It teaches children word recognition and spelling through the introduction of new letters and sounds.

How is it taught?

At Harvington we follow the ELS phonic scheme (September 2021).

Why this scheme?

We explored many new phonic schemes including rocket phonics, read write inc and sounds write. We decided on ELS due to its well organised, clear and coherent structure. We felt it was right for our school as it was a similar structure to our current teaching of phonics (letters and sounds).  We also preferred the way that four sounds were introduced weekly and the way that the resources (flashcards, lesson presentations) supported our school SDP, focussing on developing vocabulary and allowing the children to know more and remember more. We reflected on the idea of ‘give, give, give’ and decided that we liked this idea. The quick pace of the lessons ensured children know the essentials.

Anticipated progress and aims

-Improved vocabulary

- Improved phonic assessment

- identify and close gaps quickly and accurately

- improved fluency

-teacher and staff confidence

- accurate assessment

- timely, quick interventions

Link to ELS scheme-

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sJ8IOOMJGs

In Year One, children take a “Phonics Screening Check”; a statutory assessment required by legislation. Those children who do not meet the pass mark for the assessment will be given support and intervention programmes in Year Two to provide them with sufficient knowledge and understanding.

In Key Stage Two, teachers use formative and summative assessments to plan and deliver differentiated interventions for those children that may need extra support.

Coverage

Nursery:

Nursery to focus on listening skills, vocabulary, holding a pencil, posture for writing and language skills.

Reception:

Year One:

Year 2

Summer 1    Phase 6

Summer 2    Phase 6

Year 2 will continue using phonic assessment sheets for any child who has not achieved 5c at the end of the autumn term.

Link to Covid catch up funding please click on the finance link below.