Reading

Teaching of Reading

In key stage 2, children should be able to read independently, fluently and enthusiastically, a range of age-appropriate books, and understand what they have read. In school, Year 3 and 4 follow the Big Cat reading scheme. Children are assessed at the start of Year 3 and are encouraged to read a range of genres and fiction and non-fiction books within their level before moving up to the next level. The teacher assesses children's reading fluency and comprehension before moving them up to the next level. Once they have completed the reading scheme, with guidance, they will move on to becoming a Free Reader where they can select their own books from home, the library and class book corners.

Year 5 and 6 use Accelerated Reader which assesses their reading skills and guides their selection of books providing an appropriate challenge based on an assessment tool which is completed at the start of each term. Children will be guided in their selection of books through different colour stars labelled on the books in the library. Quizzes are available for each book which children can complete once they have finished to test their understanding of the events in the story. Class teachers continue to read with the children to assess their understanding and application of reading skills.

Phonics catch up groups are used to support pupils who have not yet grasped a sound phonological awareness. We follow the Little Wandle Revised Letters and Sound Phonics Scheme to ensure continuity with the Infant School. Please see the phonics section of our website for more information.

Reading Skills

Reading skills are taught three times a week in a whole class session. Year 3, 4 and 5 answer carefully differentiated questions based on their current Book Study text and Year 6 focus on more unseen texts in preparation for SATs. All groups have guided support from the teacher once a fortnight (or twice for identified pupils). This approach continues to promote a love of reading, helps build children's reading stamina and a deeper understanding of the core reading skills. Working in small groups, children answer questions and complete activities relating to the key reading skills. The guided session with the teacher supports careful assessment children's comprehension and further develops their reading skills.