At Woodchurch CE primary school, we believe that every child should have the opportunity to be fluent, confident readers who are able to successfully comprehend and understand a wide range of texts. Furthermore, we believe that every child should feel passionate about learning to read through our full and rich curriculum. We intend for  pupils to develop a love of reading, a good knowledge of authors and to be able to understand more about the world in which they live, through the knowledge they gain from a range of texts including fiction and non-fiction. By the end of their time at Woodchurch, all pupils should be able to read fluently, and with growing confidence, in any subject, to support them with their next steps in education. Our unique curriculum and progression for reading ensures that every pupil is given the opportunity to shine. 

At Woodchurch CE Primary School, we believe that learning to read is one of the most important skills a child will develop. Reading begins with phonics, which gives children the essential building blocks they need to decode words. Once children have mastered phonics, we continue to support them in becoming confident, fluent readers through a combination of Whole Class Reading lessons and the Accelerated Reader programme.

Whole Class Reading

"Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body" — Richard Steele

We teach reading comprehension through a whole-class approach. This means that the entire class shares the same text—whether it is a class novel, a poem, or a text linked to other areas of the curriculum—and analyses it together. Children read aloud, listen to others, and work as a group to explore the meaning of the text.

• In Key Stage 1, we use the ICLUE framework to support children in asking and answering questions.

• In Key Stage 2, we use VIPERS (Vocabulary, Inference, Prediction, Explanation, Retrieval, Summarising) to ensure children develop a broad range of comprehension skills.

This approach helps teachers track the types of questions being asked, monitor responses, and plan targeted support to develop every child’s understanding.

Accelerated Reader (AR)

What is AR?
Accelerated Reader is a computer-based programme that supports children’s independent reading. After finishing a book at their own level, children complete a short quiz. Passing the quiz shows they have understood what they have read.

AR gives instant feedback to both pupils and teachers, helping to set reading goals and guide future choices. Importantly, children choose their own books, allowing them to follow their interests while still reading at the right level. Teachers guide choices to make sure books are challenging but achievable.

If a child struggles with a quiz, their teacher may:

• Suggest a different book that is better suited to their level.

• Support them with extra discussion before the next quiz.

• Pair them with another pupil or read the book aloud with them.

For most children, quizzes are enjoyable, and they take pride in seeing their progress.

How often do children read in school?

Research shows that children who read for at least 20 minutes per day with strong comprehension make the greatest progress. At Woodchurch, we ensure time is set aside daily for reading practice.

How you can help at home

Parents and carers play a vital role in developing confident readers. You can help by:

• Reading with your child at home and talking about books.

• Visiting the library or bookshops together.

• Letting your child see you read, showing that reading is enjoyable.

• Asking questions as you read together to check understanding.

How do we know your child’s reading level?

Teachers use a range of methods, including:

• STAR Reading assessments (computer-based, adapting to your child’s answers).

• Standardised reading age tests.

• Professional judgement based on daily classroom experience.

From these, each child is given a ZPD (Zone of Proximal Development)—a recommended reading range that challenges them without causing frustration. This ensures they grow in confidence while maintaining enjoyment.

AR Quizzes

There are more than 11,000 quizzes available through AR, with new ones being added regularly. Quizzes come in different forms:

• Reading Practice Quizzes – test literal comprehension of a book.

• Vocabulary Practice Quizzes – reinforce new vocabulary.

• Literacy Skills Quizzes – assess higher-order comprehension skills.

You can check if a book has an AR quiz by visiting www.arbookfind.co.uk.

Reading Levels and Interest Levels

It’s important to choose books not just for difficulty, but for appropriate content. AR uses “Interest Levels” to guide this:

• LY – Lower Years (Key Stage 1)

• MY – Middle Years (Key Stage 2)

• UY – Upper Years (Year 6+)

This ensures that children read books suitable for both their ability and their age.

If you would like more information about how we teach reading, or if you need advice on how to support your child at home, please speak with your child’s class teacher.