At Newham Bridge, we strive for every child becoming a fluent reader, and a reader who thrives. To support with a strong start in reading, we follow the Read, Write, Inc. Phonics systematic synthetics phonics program. Read Write Inc. is a highly effective, structured synthetic phonics programme as it provides a consistent, fast-paced scheme for teaching reading.
What is Read Write Inc. Phonics?
Read Write Inc. is a systematic programme that teaches children how to read phonetically. Over the programme the children will:
- Learn 44 sounds and the corresponding letter/letter groups using simple picture prompts
- Learn to read words using sound blending known as Fred Talk
- Read green and red words
- Read stories featuring the words that they have learnt to sound out
- Show that they comprehend the stories by answering questions
- Write the letters/letter groups which represent the 44 sounds
- Write words by saying sounds in Fred Talk
- Write simple sentences
The children are taught within ability groups which are set by their outcome on the RWI Phonics assessment. The children are reassessed at least half termly, and groups change regularly, supporting their developing knowledge.
How can you support your child’s reading journey?
Reading at home is incredibly important to supporting your child’s reading journey. To support your child with their phonics, you will find helpful videos that model all of the different sounds on our Phonics Support page, as well as other useful hints and tips. The password to access this webpage can be found in your child’s reading record. You could also visit the Read Write Inc. Parent’s Support Page.
At the start of your child’s reading journey, they will begin reading Sound Blending Books, which focus on blending sounds into words. As your child’s fluency develops, they will move onto Ditties which they will share each day in class. After this, they will then move onto Book Bag Books.
On the inside of your child’s reading book, you will find lots of useful information as well as some questions that you could chat about after your child has read their story.
Alongside your child’s phonics book, they will also bring home a ‘Shared Reading Book’. Your child will choose this book themselves, to share it with you at home. As the book will contain sounds and words that your child has not yet covered in their phonics lesson, this book is for you to read to them. A perfect opportunity for this would be at bedtime as it gives children a calm, comforting end to the day.
If you have any questions about phonics or reading, please speak to our Reading Lead, Mr Griffiths.
