Curriculum - English

Literacy is a significant priority for all classes in order to develop written expression, spelling and comprehension as well as a love of reading and books.

• The Reading Programme is the fundamental tool to build literacy skills from Kindergarten to Year 2 (Early Stage1 and Stage 1).  At Avondale, the Reading Programme is run by qualified professional teacher’s not well meaning volunteers. Based on phonics, blending and recognition of high frequency words, the child moves quickly from ‘readers’ to ‘real’ books.
• Children in Kindergarten to Year 2 have reading groups at least 4 times a week and take a Home Reader four nights a week. Home reading with parents is for reinforcement, encouragement and praise! Running records document your child’s progress through the PM reader’s series and chapter books are introduced and encouraged from Year 1.
• DEAR time is held each day to combine rest with relaxed fun reading. Guided Reading and Reciprocal Reading give time and opportunity for in depth discussion and deconstructing texts.
• Author/Illustrator studies will be used to enrich and capture the imagination of young children, extending ‘reading aloud’ story time from home to school. This exposes the reader and listener to the best usage of language as well as adding new vocabulary and providing material for discussion and clarification. Book week will also be held to promote reading and awareness among our children.
• Participation in Competition like the Premier’s Reading Challenge, creative writing competitions and public speaking seminars
• School newsletter will carry contribution from our children on school and world news.