Literacy Update

Why Literacy is important

Literacy is more than reading and writing. It helps students:

• build confidence
• develop imagination and creativity
• improve speaking and listening skills
• strengthen critical thinking
• succeed across all subjects.

This term our students will be focusing on building strong reading habits and becoming more confident, capable writers.

Foundation and Year 1

• Foundation and Year 1 students have commenced the InitiaLit program, a structured and evidence-based approach to teaching reading. Through explicit phonics instruction, guided reading and handwriting practice, students are building strong foundational literacy skills.

• Foundation students are learning to confidently put pen to paper, forming letters correctly and simply exploring and having a go at writing. 

• Year 1 students are learning to write recounts, retelling personal experiences in the correct sequence using time connectives such as first, then and finally. They will be developing their ability to write complete sentences and include important details from their experiences.

Years 2–6 Spelling focus

• Students in Years 2 to 6 have commenced SMART Spelling, with a focus each week. This structured approach supports students to understand spelling rules, patterns and word study strategies rather than simply memorising word lists.

Year 3 – Matilda

Year 3 students will be reading Matilda by Roald Dahl. The story is about a clever girl named Matilda who faces challenges at home and at school. She uses her intelligence and special abilities to overcome problems. This term, students will write narratives and simple persuasive texts, sharing their own ideas clearly.

Year 4 – Uncle Xbox

Year 4 students will be reading Uncle Xbox by Jared Thomas. The story follows a boy who learns about family and spending time together instead of just playing on his Xbox.

Students will write factual recounts, practising how to put events in order and include the important details.

Year 5/6 – War Horse

Year 5/6 students will be reading War Horse by Michael Morpurgo. The story follows Joey, a horse, and his experiences during World War I. Students will write narratives, focusing on telling events clearly and including the main characters and key events.

Minilit Intervention 

We will also be starting the MiniLit intervention program for some students. MiniLit is a structured program that helps students who need extra support with reading and spelling. It focuses on building phonics skills, word knowledge and reading fluency. Parents of students who will be involved will be contacted directly with more information.

Parents - How you can help at home

• Read together daily
• Ask your child questions about what they are reading
• Encourage storytelling at dinner time
• Visit your local library

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

Leader | Bernadette Parnis