English - Phonics

At Netherton C of E Primary School we use the Read Write Systematic Synthetic Phonics Programme (validated by the DfE) to give your child the best possible start with their literacy. 

What is Read Write Inc. Phonics?

Read Write Inc (RWI) is a complete phonics and literacy programme which helps all children learn to read fluently and at speed so they can focus on developing their skills in comprehension, vocabulary and spelling. Read Write Inc. Phonics teaches children to read accurately and fluently with good comprehension. They learn to form each letter, spell correctly, and compose their ideas step-by-step. The programme is designed for children aged 4-7. However, at Netherton, we begin the programme in Nursery and will continue teaching RWI to children beyond the age of 7 if they still need support in their reading. RWI was developed by Ruth Miskin and more information and guidance for parents on this can be found at https://www.ruthmiskin.com/en/find-out-more/parents/  

Reading

Children learn the English alphabetic code: first they learn one way to read the 40+ sounds and blend these sounds into words, then learn to read the same sounds with alternative graphemes. They experience success from the very beginning. Lively phonic books are closely matched to their increasing knowledge of phonics and ‘tricky’ words and, as children re-read the stories, their fluency increases. Along with a thought-provoking introduction, prompts for thinking out loud and discussion, children are helped to read with a storyteller’s voice. 

How will RWI be taught?

All children are assessed regularly by our RWI reading leader so they grouped in order to work with children at the same level. This allows complete participation in lessons. 

Reading

The children: 

• learn 44 sounds and the corresponding letters/letter groups using simple picture prompts 
• learn to read words using Fred talk and sound blending
• read from a range of storybooks and non-fictions books matched to their phonic knowledge
• work well with partners
• develop comprehension skills in stories by answering 'Find It' and 'Prove It' discussion questions 

Writing

The children: 

• learn to write and form the letters/letter groups which represent the 44 sounds with the help of fun phrases
• learn to write words by using Fred Talk
• learn to build sentences by practising sentences out loud before they write  

Talking

The children: 

They work in pairs so that they: 

• answer every question
• practise every activity with their partner
• take turns in talking and reading to each other
• develop ambitious vocabulary

Take a look at our parent guide: RWI Parent Guide