Decoding Fluency, or word-recognition fluency, is widely recognised as the first step towards skilled reading. The brain can only pay attention to so much information at a given time. If comprehension (the ultimate goal of reading) is going to take place during reading, then the 'reading' of the words on the page must become automatic (that is, capable of being carried out without conscious attention).
This course provides a 10-12 minute small group routine ('The 5 Bits') that allows the reader to practise the transference of their knowledge of letter sounds and spelling patterns learnt during phonics instruction, so that they can successfully 'read' the words off the page in front of them. The routine also develops parsody; accuracy, phrasing and expression. That is Decoding Fluency.
We show you how to present them with just the right amount of challenge so that they experience success and gain confidence with this process.
Once they can deliver quick 'automatic' responses to most of the words they are reading (the words have been successfully orthographically mapped), they are ready for more intense comprehension instruction (Stage 3).
TARGET AUDIENCE:
Teachers of NE/Prep-Yr 2, Learning Support, Teacher Aides.
For Year 4 and above students still having decoding difficulties, we suggest our 'Struggling Older Reader' Course.
STUDENT READINESS:
Students should be involved in a phonics program. If you are looking for one then check out SharpPhonics.
Do you want to have a look under the bonnet? No payment required
We have spent many hours on our course design to ensure it caters for a whole range of learning preferences.
On-your-own learning
If you want to go it alone then go for it - our written and video explanations, tasks and quizzes will help you to process and apply this new knowledge (use it or lose it)
Live face-to-face tutoring
If you learn best through interaction with a tutor our Zoom webinars and Zoom coaching is all included when you enrol.
Each of the 8 units is a distinct piece of learning with clearly stated Learning Outcomes.
READ/LISTEN/WATCH, anwser a quiz, go away and practice what you have learnt with your students, come back and review.
Alternatively, if you are a big-picture person, do the whole thing in one sitting then take it into the classroom.
This gives you ample time to become truly fluent with this SharpReading course and allows you lots of flexiblity with how you learn best.
Downloadables - We include everything you need to run this course
Course Book - a 24-page at your fingertips classroom resource for quick reference
Templates - Teacher scripts, teaching charts, planning and assessment templates, self-assessment forms
Student texts - you can use most of your existing junior school readers. We do provide a selection of out Illustrated StoryBytes for use in Stage 2
Great for those who want an event to get them started on a date and time that suits you
A personalised one-on-one training session with one of the writers of the course.
You can schedule this using our appointments calendar in Unit 1
If you want a closer look at the course rational and how it aligns with the Science of Reading and Structured Literacy (and answers to any other questions you may have) this is the place to go.
Lots of modelling and practice with the routine - let us coach you through this so that you feel absolutely confident about taking it straight into the classroom.
2 x 30 min Zoom coaching sessions are included - If you get stuck, want to problem-solve specific issues with your class, or want to clarify some aspect of the teaching, you can book a one-on-one session.
SharpReading Stages 1&2 Accreditation - Get recognition for all your hard work!
If you don't yet have an in-school SharpReading Coach or a visiting SharpReading consultant then we have processes in place to make this happen remotely.
There is much more available to you during your 12 months access
Weekly automated email follow-up - reminders, prompts, suggestions, additional tips
FAQs lists throughout the course - if you can't find you answers then email us 24/7
Join our Online Learning Community - coming soon. This will allow you to connect with other Stages 1&2 SharpReading teachers.
The proof of the pudding is in the learner outcomes. Typically, you will get...
ongoing development of decoding fluency and confidence
big gains in student motivation - they can see the way their growing phonics skills are unleashing their ability to read text independently
enjoyment of text - the routine immerses them in the text messages. Reading becomes so much more than word calling.
For you, the teacher, our routines are the key to SHARPREADING reading success.
Highly structured routines allow the students to take control of their practice
Takes care of 'How do I teach flency?'
Teacher talk is greatly reduced
You are freed up to monitor their progress with the code and redirect your explicit teaching accordingly
Preparation time is greatly reduced