Embedded Files
Why the change to 'Structured Literacy'?
Why the change to 'Structured Literacy'?
Our curriculum is constantly evolving. We are adapting our literacy programmes to include research and best practice. ie; what works for all learners.
Is this the new 'fad'?
Is this the new 'fad'?
No. The research that sits behind Structured Literacy and the Science of Reading spans over 40 years. This research is not limited to education; it also includes neuroscience, cognitive psychology and the study of linguistics.
What are 'Heart' words'?
What are 'Heart' words'?
There are a few high-frequency (commonly used) words that children cannot decode yet. We call these ‘Heart words’ because children need to learn them by heart to read them. Many Heart words become decodable later in the program when children have more knowledge of the alphabetic code. A few Heart words will not become decodable – they are irregular or use uncommon spelling patterns. Heart words are also words that are needed to create a story. At Stages 1 and 2, the Heart words the and I allow children to read and write whole sentences and stories.
Why are the books coming home so easy?
Why are the books coming home so easy?
The 'decodables' (books based on known sounds) are easy enough for your child to read on their own. They are specifically written in this way to increase fluency, confidence and provide the necessary repetition, scaffold and practice children need to learn any new skill. These books increase in length and complexity as your child learns more and more sounds.
Example Text at 'Stage 1'
Example Text at 'Stage 7'
My child has had this book already?
My child has had this book already?
Re-reading books is important to build confidence and fluency. We want children to move from segmenting and blending words in a slow and careful manner, to reading fluently. Reading fluently means to read accurately, with expression and at a 'conversational' pace. Fluency is key to understanding what we read.
Can we read other books at home?
Can we read other books at home?
Absolutely. Like we do in class, children need to be exposed to lots of stories, poems, information texts etc. Read these often to your child. Read for fun, interest and enjoyment. Having these read to them, increases their spoken vocabulary, introduces them to complex ideas and builds understanding of rich texts. All of this helps them become confident readers and writers.
How do I know where my child is at?
How do I know where my child is at?
We have adjusted our goals within Hero to match the Scope and Sequence we have included in our literacy at Te Ao Mārama. These will be updated through the year.
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