Part 1: Teaching Reading in the First Year of School
Welcome to "Teaching Reading in the First Year of School," a series of podcasts dedicated to guiding educators through the essential components of a comprehensive reading curriculum for beginning readers. Join host Phil and literacy expert Diane Snowball as they delve into the critical aspects of teaching reading to young learners.In this episode, Diane Snowball, a renowned literacy specialist, provides invaluable insights into constructing a well-rounded reading curriculum for early readers. Diane discusses some of the key elements, including concepts of print, phonological awareness, phonemic awareness, phonics, morphemic awareness, high-frequency words, the reading process, vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, and the significance of fostering motivation and enjoyment in reading. Other components are discussed in other episodes.Diane emphasises the importance of varied instructional methods such as Read Aloud, Shared Reading, Independent Reading, Interactive Writing, and Language Experience Work. She shares her recent experiences working with the dedicated staff at Elsternwick Primary School, where collaboration and continuous learning among teachers have significantly enhanced the reading curriculum for foundation and grade one students.Understanding the diverse reading abilities children bring to their first year of school is crucial. Diane highlights the necessity of individualised instruction based on students' unique experiences and knowledge. Through regular reading conferences, teachers at Elsternwick Primary School learn about their students' reading capabilities, enabling the teachers to tailor instruction to meet each child's needs effectively.Diane also discusses the foundational role of concepts of print, including the one-to-one correspondence between spoken and written words. She explains how repetitive books with predictable patterns can aid children in developing these essential skills. Additionally, Diane stresses the significance of teaching phonological and phonemic awareness, helping children recognise sounds in language and how this can assist with reading.To support educators, Diane offers practical strategies for teaching letters, sounds, and word recognition. She advocates for using a variety of texts and creating custom decodable books based on students' experiences and classroom learning. This approach not only reinforces phonics skills but also enhances students' motivation and engagement by involving them in the creation of their own reading materials.Throughout the episode, Diane provides thoughtful advice on classroom management, ensuring that teaching practices are adaptable to the diverse needs of young learners. By building a strong foundation in reading, fostering a love for books, and addressing individual learning needs, educators can set their students on a path to successful and enjoyable reading experiences from the very beginning of their school journey.READ THE BLOG here.NEW TEACHIFIC RESOURCESThe Comprehensive Reading Curriculum 2024Helping Children to Learn High Frequency Words F-1, 2024Learning About Letter-Sound Relationships to Read Words F-1, 2024The Usefulness of Onsets and Rimes When Reading and Writing F-2, 2024Comprehension in Foundation - Strategies, Instruction, Assessment F, 2024TEACHIFIC RESOURCESCourse: Understanding English OrthographyPicture books for 5-6 year oldsAlphabet books for 5.6 year oldsNursery Rhymes and SongsJOIN TEACHIFIC NOW AND SAVE!Join Teachific today. Access thousands of resources and a growing number of 'anytime' courses within your membership.FURTHER INFORMATIONTune in to "Teacher's Tool Kit For Literacy," a free podcast where accomplished literacy educator Sharon Callen and her team share valuable insights and tips. With over 30 years of experience, they provide strategic learning solutions to empower teachers and leaders worldwide. Subscribe on your favourite platform for exclusive literacy learning content. Apple, Spotify, Google, YouTubeRead our insightful blogs, which make valuable connections between resources, podcasts and courses.Visit our Cue Learning website and sign up for the Teacher's Toolkit Weekly newsletter to stay updated on resources, events and discover how Cue can support you and your school.Explore Teachific, our vast collection of PDF resources, to enhance your teaching toolkit. And get even more support from our growing number of 'anytime' online courses.Connect with the latest news and other educators by joining our Teacher's Toolkit Facebook groupExplore upcoming live or online webinar eventsHave questions or feedback? Reach out to us directly at [email protected].