Online Course: Synthetic Phonics and Beyond

Course link: http://pld-literacy-and-learning.thin... By the time students reach middle and upper primary the range in ability is often significant. There are a proportion of students who still require a synthetic phonics approach, but then there are students who are strong spellers and adopt the spelling focus words with relative ease, but who don’t necessarily know what the words mean and transfer the complex words into writing. The course outlines a process which enables teachers learn to be comfortable with the range in ability, and flexible enough to devise a process that matches student ability. The first step is assessing the class. A simple time efficient non-standardised spelling test is provided. It identifies the gaps in knowledge and/or the level at which students are currently at. On the basis of the results (and the range in ability) next a synthetic phonics approach is outlined which aims to deliver significant spelling and phonics skill development. The 6 week course consists of: Installment 1: Screening to establish the range in ability within a junior primary class. Installment 2: The marking/analysis of the student spelling tests, to establish ability groups and to focus your teaching. Installment 3: Introduction to Synthetic Phonics – Quality learning activities drawing upon the class profile. Installment 4: Establishing a weekly spelling process in which three groups can be facilitated. Installment 5: Frequently Asked Questions – e.g. How many spelling words? How and when do spelling groups get reviewed? Suggestions for spelling tests? How do sight words relate to synthetic phonics? Installment 6: Using the class profile to expand the process beyond spelling, the introduction of dictation & students who are progressing slowly.