Phonics in KS1
Phonics in Key Stage 1
In Year 1, children are taught a 30-minute phonics lesson every day. They will also have an opportunity to apply their phonic knowledge to reading a book (matched to their level).
Children will learn the remaining graphemes in the Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised programme. These are alternative spellings for the sounds that they already know. The children will become more fluent readers and will read increasingly challenging texts.
What can I do to support my child at home?
• Listen to your child practise reading their phonics book to develop their fluency.
• Read to your child daily – choose books that you can enjoy together. The love of reading books we send home are a great place to start.
• Ask your child’s teacher if you need extra help with supporting your child.
Phase 5
Graphemes mat used in class
Phonics Screening Test
Children in Year 1 will complete the Phonic Screening Check during the summer term. The phonics screening check is a short test taken by all children in England in Year 1. The check is designed to give teachers and parents information on how your child is progressing in phonics. We strive for all of our children to pass the Phonic Screening Check and additional support will be put in place for those children who require it. The children who do not achieve the pass mark in Year 1 will take the test in the following academic year, when they are in Year 2.
The test consist of 40 words and non-words that your child will be asked to read one-on-one with a teacher. Non-words (or alien words) are a collection of letters that will follow phonics rules your child has been taught, but don’t mean anything – your child will need to read these with the correct sounds to show that they understand the phonics rules behind them. The teacher administering the check with your child will give them a few practice words to read first – including some non-words – so they understand more about what they have to do. Each of the non-words is presented with a picture of an alien, so your child knows it doesn't make sense!
Schools will administer the Year 1 Phonics Screening Check the week beginning Monday 8th June. Please ensure your child is in school during this week.
If you have any questions about the Phonics Screening Check then please speak to your child's class teacher or Mrs Farrell (Phonics lead). There will be a Phonics meeting regarding the PSC in the Spring Term.