Literacy

Although the English language has 26 letters (5 vowels and 21 consonants), it has 44 phonemes or sounds which help us to spell and read. From primary one, the pupils are introduced to the sounds using Jolly Phonics using a multi-sensory approach. Each sound has a story, song and action to help the child remember the shape of the letter. 

As the children progress through school they are introduced to alternative sounds. For example, the sound 'ai' in the word 'rain' could also be written as 'ay' or 'a-e' as well as a few others. Children should apply these alternative sounds in their independent writing and are asked to look at the word after they write them to check it looks correct. This can be practised using the 'Say and Cover and Write and Check' method. As your child progresses through school they will be introduced to all 44 phonemes.