At City Beach Primary School reading is an important part of our literacy program. It is formally taught and then integrated across all learning areas. Over the last 20 years research has debunked some of the approaches previously used to teach reading. The current focus is a synthetic phonic based approach, moving away from the balanced literacy and whole language approaches used in the past. What remains the same is that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach in education. We know that children benefit from explicit instruction in phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension, together with reading, and being read to, a wide range of quality books and literature.
Reading aloud to children often reduces as students grow older and learn to read independently. Research shows that reading aloud improves children’s knowledge and vocabulary, as well as their writing and comprehension. By listening to their children read aloud, families are supporting their children’s learning, and increasing their confidence and sense of security. Reading to, and with children, also has social and emotional benefits – promoting a positive mood and sense of wellbeing.
For more information on how to support your children with reading go to:
education.wa.edu.au/neverstopreading