Phonics
At Sunshine Academy we use the Read Write Inc. (RWI) Phonics programme to give every child the best possible start in learning to read and write. This systematic approach ensures that children learn the sounds (phonemes) and letter patterns (graphemes) they need to become confident, fluent readers.
What is Read Write Inc. ?
Read Write Inc. is a structured phonics programme designed by Ruth Miskin. It teaches children to:
· Recognise sounds in spoken words
· Read and write letters that represent those sounds
· Blend sounds together to read words
· Segment words into sounds for spelling
· Read with accuracy, fluency and expression
· Develop comprehension through story discussions
Who Takes Part?
· Nursery: Children will begin by taking part in phonological awareness activities and introduced to RWI pictures and sounds in the summer term.
· Reception: Children begin by learning Set 1 initial sounds and oral blending and progress through reading books matched to their phonic knowledge.
· Year 1 & Year 2: Children will learn Set 2 & 3 sounds and progress through reading books matched to their phonics knowledge.
· Intervention: Children who need extra support receive targeted intervention to close reading gaps.
Children are grouped according to their current reading level, ensuring consistent challenge and rapid progress.
How is RWI Taught?
Phonics is taught daily in small groups. Sessions follow a familiar routine that helps build confidence:
1. Speed Sounds – learning/revisiting a set of sounds
2. Blending – putting sounds together to read words
3. Reading Green/Red Words – common words to support fluency
4. Read a Storybook – guided reading focusing on accuracy and understanding
5. Writing – spelling, handwriting and sentence formation linked to the sounds taught
Children are assessed regularly, and groups are adjusted to match their progress.
Storybooks and Practice
Children take home RWI Book Bag Books or storybooks aligned to their phonics level so they can practise the sounds and words learned in school. We encourage children to read these books several times to build fluency and confidence.
Supporting Your Child at Home
Parents and carers can help by:
· Listening to their child read daily
· Encouraging children to practise their speed sounds and key words
· Using pure sounds (e.g., “mmm” not “muh”)
· Attending parent workshop
We share virtual classroom videos, sound mats and phonics guidance so families can support learning at home.
Phonics Screening Check
In Year 1, a Phonic Screening Check will take place in the Summer Term. This will check the child’s ability to use their phonic knowledge to read a list of 40 words which will consist of real and nonsense words (alien words).We use RWI to ensure they are well-prepared and confident
Why Read Write Inc.?
✔ Builds strong foundations in reading and writing
✔ Research-based and highly effective
✔ Engaging lessons that develop a love of reading
✔ Ensures every child makes good progress
If you would like more information about phonics at Sunshine Academy please speak to your child’s class teacher or contact our Phonic Lead: Mrs Broadway
Useful Website Links
Read Write Inc. - Learning to read at home