Beginning Reader

A Beginning Reader

• Cannot access print independently
• May not be aware that text = meaning
• Has favourites - wants to share and talk through known books
• will join in simple nursery rhymes
• Reacts and responds to illustrations
• Should know how to handle books
• Their reading relies on willingness to perform, interpret and invent

Older Readers who have limited experience of reading may;

• Build up a selection of books to return to again and again
• May not have developed strategies to lift words from the page i.e. sounding out

To Support Parents Can;

• Story / Reading routine - We ask all pupils to read for twenty minutes a day. The routine is still important even if not reading to a parent.
• Ensure the child has access to quality texts. These can be from school, a public library or home.
• Model enjoyment of reading, can be stories, newspapers etc (even if you have to fake it).
• Demonstrate reading for pleasure - this is particularly important for males as reading can be perceived as a 'female' activity.
• Provide opportunities for independent reading / re-enacting and responding.
• Provide regular opportunities to talk about what has been read to them.
• Include song lyrics, poetry, short stories, audio books and graphic novels in reading or discussions.
• Contextualise reading
• Play with word sounds, rhyming, linking words and word families
• Story boxes - take 5 objects and create a story that links them.
• Stay in contact with school - particular barriers - talk to the school library / English teachers if you think your child is struggling.
• Listen to the child read - relaxed and reflective encourage strengths.