LITERACY
Literacy is the foundation for children's ability to read, write and communicate effectively. We aim to empower our tamariki with the skills and confidence they need to become strong readers, expressive writers and confident communicaters.
At Ruahine School our learners engage in literacy learning that is purposeful, structured, meaningful and balanced.
Our teaching and learning of Literacy focuses on:
Reading
Reading to students
Shared reading (reading a text or big book together)
Guided reading (reading in a group)
Independent reading
Teaching decoding and comprehension strategies
Using reading skills across the curriculum
Reading for enjoyment - we have a well-stocked library!
Spelling
A structured literacy approach to teaching spelling
Shared, guided and independent spelling
Developing children's understanding of 'The Code' (the sounds in words, phonics, spelling patterns and the structure of words)
Learning 'Heart Words; - words with irregular spelling patterns or high frequency words
Writing
Modelled and shared writing (writing together)
Guided writing (writing with the teacher or teacher aide)
Independent writing
Using writing skills across the curriculum
Oral Language
Modelled, shared, guided and independent speaking and listening
Developing vocabulary knowledge
Learning across the curriculum that collaborative discussions, oral presentations, role play and drama, poems, debates etc.
How we support and extend our learners in their literacy learning:
Differentiated teaching and learning programmes
Learning Support Teacher working with small groups
Heggerty phonological and phonemic awareness programme
Toe-by-Toe phonics-based programme
Speech & Language support with teacher aides
Student Librarians
Manawatu Lit Quiz
Tararua Library Quiz