Our writing program rests on explicit, carefully sequenced instruction, building from sentences to embedding content into more detailed passages and whole texts. Sentences are the building blocks of all writing, hence the focus targeting grammar at a sentence level. Linking writing with our Integrated Curriculum units builds a solid understanding of teaching concepts and develops a more in depth knowledge base for students.
Students are exposed to texts that support their comprehension, fluency and decoding skills. They learn how to use and choose reading strategies for different genres (informational, instructional, persuasive, narrative, poetry, etc.) and how to respond to their reading through peer conversations, in guided groups and through written formats. Teachers develop students confidence through shared and whole class reading, provide time for independent reading to increase stamina and guide individuals through explicit goals and skills.
Oral language lays the foundation for the reading and writing skills children develop at Newham PS. They use oral language in all aspects of their education – in the classroom as they connect with peers and teachers, to explore and explain their thinking, to discuss their feelings and emotions, and in finding new ways to communicate ideas. These skills help our students become successful readers and strong communicators, as well as building their confidence.
Our synthetic Phonics Program is grounded in the Promoting Literacy Development (PLD) Program. Students are supported to make the links between the letters of the alphabet to the common sounds they make, individually and blended. This whole school approach to word study directly teaches children Phonological Awareness, Regular Spelling Patterns, Morphology, Word Origins and the purposeful building of a wide Vocabulary to use when speaking, writing and reading.
