Reflection on small group teaching 

Currently, our school is using a theme-based approach where children are exposed to key vocabulary across learning areas. Prior to reading, I use videos, stories, and vocabulary activities to frontload learning for the class. Students are also encouraged to research using key words and phrases. As the theme is integrated across most curriculum areas, it helps strengthen understanding and creates a lasting impact on learning.

To support structured literacy, I can use explicit and sequential teaching of reading skills alongside these themes. This includes pre-teaching vocabulary, modelling comprehension strategies, teaching phonics and word patterns, and giving students guided practice during shared and small group reading. Using modelling books, word cards, and repeated exposure to key vocabulary helps students make connections between reading, writing, and oral language. Structured literacy also encourages deliberate teaching where skills are broken into manageable steps and revisited regularly, helping learners build confidence and deeper understanding.