Phonics
At Co-operative Education East (CEE) we have made the exciting move to follow the Monster Phonics DfE approved phonics scheme. Monster Phonics is a rigorous, systematic synthetic programme which will help us to develop fluency, vocabulary and comprehension skills. By combining the technical skills needed to read alongside an enjoyment of and in reading we want children to possess a love of reading.
We know that children learn best when parents/carers and teachers follow the same methods. Working in the same way is vital for reinforcing learning. For this reason, we share information with our parents about the structure of our phonics lessons, the content taught and ways parents and carers can support their children at home.
Our Approach and Structure
Our Nursery and at the start of EYFS children access the Phase 1 module of ‘Letters and Sounds’. This is a vital starting point allowing children to practice the listening skills needed for segmenting and bending in their reading and writing and allow them to progress with phase 2 and beyond.
Year 1 Phonics Screening
As you are aware, all children within Year 1 will take part in a statutory Year 1 Phonics Screening check. This takes place in June.
What happens in the Phonics Screening Check?
The test is designed to assess your child’s reading skills via 40 words split into two sections. Each section consists of 10 real words and 10 pseudo-words (non-sense or ‘alien words’). These pseudo words are included because your child will need to be able to use their phonic knowledge and decoding skills to be able to read any word they come across as they progress within the school. This enables children to learn new words themselves by gaining an understanding through the context in which it has been placed.
Do we get to know the results?
We have to report the results to the local authority by the end of the summer (year 1) term. We’ll also let you know the results before the summer holidays.
If your child does not meet the expected standard in the check, they’ll get to have another go next year (for year 1) or in the summer term (for year 2). It’s normally nothing to worry about.
The results do not count towards any league tables.
How can I support my child?
Please continue to read at home daily including practising to read ‘alien words’.
Read our letter to parents, available via Class Dojo.
For more information about the phonics screening check please visit the school website or Parent video: The Phonics Screening Check – YouTube .
If you have any questions or queries please speak to your child’s class teacher.
