Reading
Talk Through Stories (Reception and Year 1)
At Hackness and Wykeham, we recognise that young children develop their knowledge, understanding and, most importantly, love of texts through special story times with trusted adults. Opportunities to listen to carefully-selected, high-quality texts repeatedly is a vital part of supporting children to learn new vocabulary and internalise common story structures. Therefore, we bring our Reception and Year 1 children together for Talk Through Stories. This is offered on a two-year rolling programme to ensure children are exposed to a breadth of stories; stories include 'classics' as well as contemporary texts.
Our offer for reading for pleasure and developing comprehension sits alongside our offer for Phonics which is delivered using Little Wandle Letters and Sounds. For more information about Phonics, please see the Phonics section of our website.
Whole class reading (Year 2-Year 6)
Our whole class reading offer ensures children access a diverse range of authors, texts and genres, reflecting their experiences as well as exposing them to new worlds and viewpoints. Reading lessons provide opportunities for pupils to develop their understanding of vocabulary, improve fluency and expression for reading aloud, broaden their knowledge and develop deeper understanding.
As well as four lessons focusing on the chosen text each week, children have a fifth session promoting reading for pleasure. This usually takes place in our school library where the class teacher models choosing books, recommends authors relevant for the age group and children have the opportunity to engage in ‘book talk’.