RPI Day 1 Reflection
Developing reading skills across the curriculum is essential in shaping lifelong learners. Strong readers read with expression and fluency, understand and retell texts, identify key features and author intentions, and think critically about what they read. They use strategies independently, apply their learning in wider contexts, participate actively, and most importantly, enjoy reading.
To promote this culture in my classroom, I will prioritise Sustained Silent Reading (SSR), build reading mileage, and encourage reading with whānau. Creating consistent routines and valuing reading time will help strengthen positive habits and engagement.
This course has strengthened my understanding that effective reading programmes require explicit, systematic instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. I have gained confidence in using assessment data to identify gaps and adjust my teaching to meet learners’ needs. Consistent practice, structured lessons, and engaging, culturally relevant texts are key to improving outcomes.
Knowing my learners — their interests, strengths, and needs — is vital. When reading connects to their experiences, motivation and confidence grow. Using the reader survey will help me better understand what my students choose to read and why, especially after a busy week like Year 6 camp. Moving forward, I am focused on establishing clear ground rules and maintaining strong routines to ensure reading time remains purposeful and effective.
Kia ora Asha,
ReplyDeleteWelcome along on the Reading Practice Intensive! It's wonderful to have you with us! Thank you for your reflection on Day 1. You've identified so many of the vital aspects that support a comprehensive reading programme. I'm pleased to see that alongside assessment and practice, you've noted the importance of knowing your learners and their preferences.
I'm looking forward to hearing about the interesting and informative data you uncover from the reading survey and what your students' preferences are. I do hope camp went well? The first term is so busy isn't it?
When does SSR happen in your classroom? Do you read during this time too? It's wonderful for our students to see us as 'teachers as readers' as well, and hear us express enthusiasm for our own reading preferences and the books we're prioritising time for. Do you have a current book on the go that you're reading for pleasure?
I look forward to hearing more about your findings when we next meet.
Ngā mihi nui,
Amie Williams
Reading Practice Intensive Coach
Manaiakalani Programme
Namaste Amie,
ReplyDeleteCamp has defintely provided oppotunites to make friends doing different activities. The activities were intense and fun. First time doing kayak- enjoyed it a lot.
Room 8 loves to do SSR after lunch eating for 15 mins. We all read together. Children gets so hooked and sometimes I have to put timer. The children response with Ms, just 1 more minute. Great enthusiam- makes a difference when they see their teacher reading with them.
At this point in time, I am modelling how to read fluently so I am using School Journal.