Improving reading for understanding

Mentrau: 2009-2010

Improving reading for understanding A collaborative cluster based approach focused on improving the reading standards of children from disadvantaged backgrounds in order to enhance learning and improve achievement and attainment across the curriculum.

Schools: This project is focused on the Daniel James Cluster of schools in Swansea

Contact name: Jonathan Atter (Gwyrosydd Primary School)

Contact Number: 01792 797117

Email address: gwyrosydd.primary@swansea-edunet.gov.uk

View video of project outline

Project Outline: The Project focuses on radically changing the way in which we teach reading moving from an over focus on decoding strategies to reading with understanding. In this way pupils can engage more fully with texts, be more positively engaged and proactively involved in their learning and can become more positive and motivated which in turn leads to higher expectation and standards of achievement.

Resources

Project handbook setting out project rationale, actions and perceived successes, outlining ‘Reading Behaviours’ and some exemplar materials.
Leaflets and information for parents.
Videos for parents, videos for teachers.

School Effectiveness Framework Elements:

Leadership
Working with Others
- schools developing more of a community focus, encompassing parents, pupils and the wider community;
Networks of Professional Practice
- staff in schools embracing an enquiry-based approach
- members of staff working with other professionals within the school and more widely to develop a better understanding of the impact of poverty on pupils’ learning;
- Professional learning communities developed within and between project schools
Intervention and Support
- schools targeting support more strategically to address the impact of poverty on disadvantaged learners;
Improvement and Accountability
Curriculum and Teaching
- schools adapting teaching and learning to ensure better outcomes for disadvantaged learners;