Active Literacy

Phonics at Alford Primary – North Lanarkshire Active Literacy

At Alford Primary, we use the North Lanarkshire Active Literacy Phonics Programme to help our pupils develop strong, confident reading and writing skills. Phonics is the method of teaching children how letters and groups of letters (graphemes) represent the sounds (phonemes) in spoken language. By learning these relationships, pupils can decode new words when reading and spell words accurately when writing.

The Active Literacy Phonics Programme is a structured, systematic approach that ensures children build their skills step by step, from simple sounds to more complex patterns. It is designed to be active, engaging, and interactive, helping pupils to learn through listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

Key Features of the Active Literacy Phonics Programme

• Systematic and Sequential: Pupils learn sounds in a carefully planned order, gradually building confidence and competence.

• Active Learning: Children practise phonics skills through a range of activities, including games, word-building, blending, and segmenting.

• Reading and Writing Integration: Phonics is taught alongside reading and writing so pupils can apply their skills immediately.

• Differentiation: Activities are tailored to meet the needs of all pupils, including those who need extra support or challenge.

• Ongoing Assessment: Teachers continually check understanding to ensure pupils are secure in each step before moving on.
  
  

How Phonics Helps Pupils

• Enables children to read unfamiliar words independently.

• Supports accurate spelling and writing.

• Builds confidence and enjoyment in reading and writing.

• Provides a solid foundation for all literacy learning.
  
  

At Alford, the Active Literacy Phonics Programme is part of our wider approach to teaching reading and writing, ensuring that every child develops the skills, confidence, and love of literacy they need to succeed.