What is it all about? The government is proposing the introduction of a phonics screening check for Year 1 schoolchildren. It will identify whether they understand how to connect the sounds of spoken words with letters. In 2010, 15 per cent of children aged seven failed to achieve the expected reading level, and the government believes this test will improve reading standards. It intends to pilot the screening check this summer with the aim of rolling it out nationwide in the 2011/12 academic year.
What are the main points? The proposed check will ask children to read around 40 individual words out loud during a one-to-one session with an adult. The child's response to each word will be scored. The government is keen to establish a system that can be easily managed and doesn't place children under any unnecessary stress. The check will become part of the Key Stage 1 statutory assessments.
Who can have their say? The Department for Education (DfE) would like to hear the views of teachers, parents and the public on the purpose and structure of the check.
When is the deadline? 14 February. Responses can be completed online at www.education.gov.uk/consultations and the results will be published alongside the DfE's response in the spring.
