Learning & Teaching

F- 2 Literacy

In line with CESL Magnify, we use InitiaLit, a structured and research-based literacy program designed to develop strong reading, spelling, and writing skills in Foundation, Year 1 and Year 2 students. We are committed to providing the best start to literacy learning for all our students.

What is InitiaLit?

InitiaLit is a whole-class literacy program developed by MultiLit, an initiative of Macquarie University. It follows a structured and explicit approach to teaching the essential skills of reading and writing. The program ensures that all children receive high-quality literacy instruction, setting them up for future academic success.

How Does InitiaLit Work at Each Year Level?

Foundation (InitiaLit-F)

In their first year of school, children learn that words are made up of sounds, and these sounds are represented by letters. Through daily lessons, they are introduced to letters and sounds in a structured sequence. Teachers guide students in reading and spelling words, developing their vocabulary through engaging storybooks and activities. This early foundation is crucial for future literacy success.

Year 1 (InitiaLit-1)

Building on their Foundation learning, Year 1 students deepen their understanding of letter-sound relationships, learning that combinations of letters can create different sounds. They also develop essential literacy terminology such as ‘vowel,’ ‘syllable,’ and ‘digraph.’ Lessons include whole-class instruction followed by activities where students apply their knowledge through reading, spelling, and writing tasks.

Year 2 (InitiaLit-2)

By Year 2, students focus on reading comprehension and spelling, applying their phonics knowledge to decode and spell words confidently. They explore grammar, vocabulary, and fluency through engaging storybooks and structured lessons. Writing tasks are integrated into the program, reinforcing literacy skills in a meaningful way.

How Can You Support Your Child at Home?

Parents play a vital role in reinforcing literacy skills. Here are some ways to support your child’s reading and writing development:

- Read together daily: Share storybooks, discuss characters and events, and introduce new vocabulary.

- Encourage phonics practice: Help your child recognise letters and sounds in everyday words.

- Play word games: Engage in fun activities like rhyming games, spelling challenges, and I Spy.

- Listen to your child read: Provide encouragement and help them sound out tricky words.

- Discuss stories: Ask questions about what they have read to enhance comprehension skills.

Assessing Progress

Throughout the year, teachers regularly assess students’ reading and spelling abilities to track progress and provide additional support if needed. Assessments include reading fluency checks, comprehension activities and spelling reviews to ensure each child is developing strong literacy skills.

A Strong Foundation for Future Success

InitiaLit provides a structured, engaging, and effective approach to literacy learning, ensuring all students build a strong foundation in reading and writing. By working together, teachers and parents can support every child’s literacy journey, fostering confidence and a lifelong love of learning. If you would like more details about each year's level program, please read the attached documents for a more comprehensive overview. 

If you have any questions about InitiaLit or how to support your child’s literacy development, please don’t hesitate to speak with your child’s teacher or Erin Emmett.

Look out for our next newsletter, where we will explore Literacy for Years 3-6.