Reading & Phonics (Rec/KS1)
At Danegrove Primary School we teach phonics using Read, Write Inc. Each week, children will receive a book that matches their reading ability based on the RWI programme. A reading record will also be provided for parents to write any comments about their child's reading experience with the book of the week.
Please ensure that children bring their book bags to school every day, as they will have opportunities to read with teaching staff throughout the week. Failure to return the books may result in a replacement fee.
Children should aim to read the book at least three times: once to read the words accurately, a second time with increased fluency, and a third time using a 'storyteller voice' to show their understanding.
How can parents support their children at home?
Parents play a key role in helping children develop strong reading skills. Here are a few simple ways to help at home:
- Listen to your child read: Encourage your child to read their RWI books to you. Praise their efforts and help them with any tricky words.
- Practise sounds: Go over the sounds they’ve learned at school. You can use flashcards or sound charts to make it fun.
- Talk about the story: After reading, ask your child questions about the story to help develop their understanding and vocabulary.
- Encourage writing: Ask your child to write words or simple sentences using the sounds they know.

Encourage Reading for Pleasure by sharing your children's favourite story books with them
Bedtime Stories - there is nothing better than being taken into dreamland by falling asleep to your favourite book
Let children see you read - family members are the best reading role models - let them see you enjoy a good book, even better read when they read!
Why is reading for 15 minutes a day important?
Reading for just 15 minutes a day with your child can make a big difference to their progress. It helps:
- Build confidence: Regular reading helps children feel more confident in their skills.
- Improve understanding: Talking about the story and words helps children understand what they’re reading.
- Develop a love for reading: Spending time together with books can spark a love for stories that will last a lifetime!
By supporting your child at home, you are helping to build a strong foundation for their reading and writing skills, which will benefit them throughout their education and beyond.
Helpful Websites, Video Clips and Games
Click on the images below to be taken to the relevant sites.
RWI - Set 1 Sounds - click the + to access the video links
RWI - Set 2 Sounds - click the + to access the video links
Support for parents
Click the link below to visit the Oxford Owl website, where you will find useful resources, including pronunciation guides, a glossary of terms and downloadable guidance .
Parent guide to Read Write Inc. Phonics - Oxford Owl
Below, we have also highlighted key videos from the Oxford Owl website that we believe are especially important, such as:
- how to pronounce letter sounds
- how to blend sounds into words with your child
- how to support your child with early spelling
We encourage you to explore these videos to support your child's reading journey.
How Read Write Inc. phonics works
How to help your child learn the Read Write Inc. phonics sounds
Reading the digraphs with your child
How to help your child blend sounds
How to listen to your child read a Read Write Inc, storybook
Set 1, 2 and 3 Sound Mat
At Danegrove, we use a fun and engaging approach to help children learn phonics. For Set 1, 2 and Set 3 sounds, we use short stories and picture phrases (mnemonics) to make learning easier.
For example:
"ay – may I play?" helps children remember the "ay" sound.
"aw – yawn at dawn." helps with the "aw" sound.
To support your child’s spelling, we encourage them to use the Speed Sound Mat, which includes all Set 1, 2, and 3 sounds. This will help them identify the correct sounds and spell words accurately.
Please use the sound mat below to practice these sounds and their spellings with your child at home.