Developing Readers - Fluency
Once children are secure in their phonics learning and have met all the requirements of the main phonics programme, they move on to the Little Wandle Fluency programme. This programme starts in Year 2 and continues into Lower Key Stage 2.
At our school, we use the Little Wandle Fluency Programme to support children in becoming fluent, confident readers. This programme is designed to help children apply their phonics knowledge to read texts smoothly and with expression, building both their accuracy and comprehension. Each fluency session is structured to gradually increase reading confidence and fluency through repeated practice of familiar texts. Here’s an overview of reading practice sessions:
Children always start each session by reviewing key GPCs, decodable words and vocabulary related to the chapter. All children read the carefully matched book independently while the teacher taps in to hear everyone read.
Session 1 - Decode
Children spend plenty of time looking at GPCs, practicing reading of decodable and tricky words; and reading and discussing key vocabulary. After this, each child reads the book while the teacher taps in to hear everyone read independently.
Session 2 - Prosody
The prosody session focuses on helping children read with expression, smoothness, and appropriate phrasing. During the session, children practice reading a decodable text multiple times, with the teacher providing a model of fluent reading. Emphasis is placed on reading with correct intonation, rhythm, and punctuation to develop prosody, which is key to understanding and enjoying a text. Through repeated practice, partner reading, and teacher feedback, children gradually improve their fluency and comprehension, gaining confidence in reading aloud with expression.
Session 3 – Comprehension
The Comprehension Session is designed to help children strengthen their understanding of the texts they read. During the session, children practice reading a decodable text fluently, and then engage in discussions about the story’s meaning, characters, and key details. The teacher guides the children in asking and answering comprehension questions, encouraging them to make connections, predict outcomes, and recall important information. This session promotes both fluency and comprehension, ensuring that children not only read smoothly but also understand and enjoy what they read.
Through these structured fluency sessions, the Little Wandle Fluency Programme supports children in developing their reading confidence, allowing them to read with expression, accuracy, and understanding. Regular practice ensures that all children are able to engage with texts confidently, fostering a lifelong love of reading.
Moving into KS2
In Lower Key Stage 2 children continue to build fluency in their reading practice sessions alongside additional sessions with specific focusses. Children learn further skills in written response to texts through the study of whole class texts. Non-fiction comprehension is also taught through dedicated lessons.
In Y5 and 6 children use a combination of whole class texts, poetry and non-fiction to practice comprehension skills in dedicated lessons.
