Reading and Phonics
Our core Reading and Phonics is Monster Phonics.
Monster Phonics is a highly-engaging, structured, synthetic phonics programme. It facilitates learning by allowing children to learn new graphemes by using monsters to group graphemes for recall and to provide an easy and fun memory cue for children. It also uses colour-coding to highlight the grapheme when teaching a new grapheme. Once taught and secure, the colour is removed.
Monster Phonics creates a love of learning. Studies show that prior to Monster Phonics being used, 10% of children enjoyed phonics sessions, compared to 90% once Monster Phonics had been implemented.
Accelerated Reader - Key Stage 2
We have transormed our library and introduced a reading system called Accelerated Reader - it works pretty much the same way as Reading Pro, which the children are already familiar with, whereby they take an initial test which assesses their reading level, which then gives them a range within which they should be reading to make the most progress - on accelerated reader this is called the Z.P.D. (zone of proximal development) - catchy, I know. After reading the book, the children need to take a quiz to test their comprehension, and sometimes their vocabulary knowledge.
Year 2 to Year 6 will complete an initial Star Test, the results of which will give them their book level - this will either be recorded on their reading record or on a book mark.
We have plenty of books for them to choose from in school, but when buying books for children at home, it would also be beneficial if you bought ones that were within your child's range. If you use this weblink: https://www.arbookfind.co.uk/UserType.aspx?RedirectURL=%2fdefault.aspx and then use the 'advanced' tab, you can search for book titles by their ZPD level and interest level. I hope you find that useful.
See the Parents' Guide below for your interest - please ask if you'd like to know more.