Reading at home and in school

At Thorpe Acre Junior School, reading is important to us. We know that children need to be able to read fluently to be successful at school and in later life. Our overall objective is for each child to become a fluent and confident reader who reads widely and for pleasure.

We create lots of opportunities for children to read during  the school day, this includes:

• Guided Reading sessions
• Reading to the children at the end of the day
• Library access, and
• In-class reading within lessons.

Reading is taught as a specific skill and each child’s progress is carefully monitored.  Children are taught reading strategies in small groups during Guided Reading. 

What does reading in school look like?

Once a fortnight there is a Whole Class Reading session with the purpose of developing vocabulary alongside a focused reading skill from the ones listed below:

• 2a give / explain the meaning of words in context
• 2b retrieve and record information / identify key details from fiction and non-fiction
• 2c summarise main ideas from more than one paragraph
• 2d make inferences from the text / explain and justify inferences with evidence from the text
• 2e predict what might happen from details stated and implied
• 2f identify / explain how information / narrative content is related and contributes to meaning as a whole
• 2g identify / explain how meaning is enhanced through choice of words and phrases
• 2h make comparisons within the text

This session is based on the class read which is a high quality, age-appropriate text.  Through the exploration of these class texts, children are exposed to a range of genres, authors, settings, plots, characters and vocabulary.

Following  the fortnightly whole class session, children access a further five activities linked to the text and skill for that fortnight. During this time, children access a session with the teacher where they will  read and respond to a text at their reading level.

When children have finished reading books in class, or at home, they are encouraged to take a quiz through our Accelerated Reader programme. Accelerated Reader is provided for all children to encourage them to read a wide variety of texts whilst allowing their progress to be carefully monitored and tracked. By monitoring and tracking progress, we can deliver adaptive teaching and send appropriately levelled books home with your child.

We have invested heavily in a wide variety of books which provide a structured approach to the teaching of reading throughout the school. We have a wide range of graded reading material, and this is supported by a well-stocked fiction and non-fiction library. As well as our physical library, the children have access to an online library called myON which can be accessed in school and at home.

Throughout the day and at the end of every school day, all teachers read books aloud to their class that are based on our ‘Recommended Reads’ document. This not only models reading, but also  builds enthusiasm, creates enjoyment and influences pupils’ own reading. A further benefit being  it allows children to access higher level texts in a supportive environment.

Children needing extra intervention

Children who  need to secure gaps in their phonetic knowledge may have access to:

• Read,Write Inc
• Nessy
• Toe by Toe

Reading in partnership

We know how important it is for teachers and parents to work together to give your child the best start.

Reading together at home is one of the easiest but most important ways in which you can help your child. As you share books you are helping improve your child’s reading skills and also showing them how important and enjoyable reading is.

We have a diverse range of fiction, non-fiction and poetry books, authors and genres to support your child’s reading within school

We expect each child to read to an adult for 10-15 minutes each day. After hearing your child read, please write a comment and your initials in their planner which can then be seen by the teacher. As well as adult comments, children can sign their planners themselves. Reading books are carefully matched to the child’s level but it is important to practise every day for fluency, comprehension and decoding skills.

How to support with home reading - Ten great tips to encourage your child to read more.

Remember that the goal is to make reading a fun and enjoyable activity for your child. By following these tips and fostering a positive reading environment at home, you can help your child develop a lifelong love for reading.

1. Create a Reading-Friendly Environment: Set up a cosy reading corner in your home with comfortable seating, good lighting, and a variety of age-appropriate books within easy reach.

2. Be a Reading Role Model: Let your child see you reading regularly. Children often imitate their parents, so if they see you enjoying books, they are more likely to develop a love for reading themselves.

3. Read Aloud Together: Start reading aloud to your child from a young age. Even when they can read independently, continue this practice. It's a great way to bond and share stories.

4. Visit the Library: Take regular trips to the local library with your child. Let them choose their own books and explore different genres and topics.

5. Set a Reading Routine: Establish a daily reading routine, such as bedtime reading. Consistency helps build good reading habits.

6. Choose Age-Appropriate Books: Ensure that the books you select are appropriate for your child's age and reading level. Ask librarians or teachers for recommendations if you're unsure. Please note that each class page has recommendations carefully selected for your child’s age.

7. Explore Different Genres: Encourage your child to explore a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, fantasy, and poetry. This can help them discover their reading preferences. We have a well-resourced library with a range of books for your child to choose from.

8. Discuss What You Read: After reading, engage your child in discussions about the book. Ask questions about the characters, plot, and their favourite parts. This helps with comprehension and critical thinking.

9. Use Technology Wisely: While digital devices can be helpful for reading, ensure that screen time is balanced with physical books. E-books and audiobooks can also be great options. Access to Accelerated Reader and myON can support this.

10. Celebrate Reading Achievements: Celebrate your child's reading milestones, such as finishing a book, reaching a certain reading level, or participating in reading challenges. Positive reinforcement can motivate them to read more.

Useful Documents and Links