KSS Literacy and Reading Strategy
At Kidsgrove Secondary School, we recognise that the ability to read fluently and comprehend age-appropriate texts is fundamental to accessing the secondary school curriculum. Students who struggle with reading often face significant challenges across all subjects, which can lead to long-term academic and personal disadvantages. Research consistently highlights the direct correlation between strong literacy skills and future success. Therefore, we are committed to making reading a key priority, ensuring that no student falls behind in their educational journey.
In addition to its academic significance, we also recognise the value of reading for personal enjoyment and intellectual curiosity. Our goal is to provide all students with opportunities to engage with a wide range of texts, fostering both their functional literacy and their love for books.
At Kidsgrove Secondary School, we have partnered up with Sparx Reader to add an additional layer to the reading strategy.
Sparx Reader is a reading, comprehension and vocabulary programme that gets all young people reading regularly to help improve their literacy and motivates them to read for pleasure.
Students take a test and then they choose a book according to their level. Sparx Reader will regularly check their understanding of the story throughout the book by asking question based on comprehension of the text they are reading. Students are rewarded Sparx Reader Points by reading carefully and over time, their literacy and reading abilities will improve.
Students always have a choice in what they read as this is important to develop our reading for pleasure culture.
Below you can find the outline of our three tiers of reading support at KSS that drive our literacy and reading strategy:
Reading and Literacy Priorities
We are excited to update you on the recent launch of our new reading strategy at Kidsgrove Secondary School. This initiative is designed to enhance both Reading for Pleasure and engagement in lessons, ensuring that explicit vocabulary instruction and reading fluency are integral parts of every subject and year group. Our aim is to support students in developing a deep and meaningful understanding of the content they encounter, building their confidence across the curriculum.
Why Explicit Vocabulary Instruction is Essential:
• Improves comprehension: Understanding subject-specific vocabulary is critical for students to fully grasp complex concepts in all subjects.
• Enhances academic performance: A robust vocabulary helps students excel in exams and assignments, as they can articulate their thoughts more effectively.
• Boosts communication skills: With a wider vocabulary, students can express themselves more clearly and confidently in discussions and written work.
• Supports reading fluency: Recognising and understanding vocabulary allows students to read with greater speed and accuracy.
In line with this, we have introduced a Vocabulary Builder section in each lesson, which focuses on key vocabulary teaching. Students will be recognised and rewarded for their ability to explain any new subject specific vocabulary and use them in context. This encourages both retention and active application of new words, building their confidence in subject knowledge.
Additionally, our weekly Literacy Form Time is focusing on Word of the Week providing each year group the opportunity to focus on core vocabulary from various subjects. As part of this, students are creating their own Kidsgrove Core Knowledge Dictionary, which they can use throughout the year to support their learning and ensure they retain key terms in their subject areas.
Reading Fluency: A Key Priority
Reading fluency remains a key priority for us at Kidsgrove Secondary School. Fluent readers are able to read with greater speed, accuracy, and expression, leading to better understanding and fewer cognitive distractions in lessons. Fluent reading also allows students to focus more on comprehension and analysis rather than decoding words, which enhances learning across all subjects. Teachers at Kidsgrove are modelling expert reading techniques to students, helping them develop accuracy, fluency, and expression. This approach encourages students to read more confidently and efficiently, reducing cognitive overload and improving overall academic outcomes.
Ongoing Literacy Support
As we move through the terms, our dedicated Literacy Kidsgrove Team will continue to outline our key literacy strategies and keep you informed of the progress we’re making in embedding these practices across the school. Our focus will remain on building fluency and vocabulary, ensuring that all students are supported in their literacy journey.
Top Tips for Parents to Support Reading Fluency and Vocabulary Development at Home:
• Encourage your child to read regularly at home and share their thoughts on the material they are reading.
• Ask your child about the new vocabulary they have learned each day and how they have used it in context.
• Create a reading-friendly environment at home with access to a variety of books, newspapers, and other reading materials.
• Provide opportunities for your child to discuss what they’re reading and use new vocabulary in everyday conversations.
• Encourage your child to keep a vocabulary journal where they can write down new words and their meanings.
We sincerely thank you for your continued support in helping to develop your child’s literacy skills. Working together, we can build their confidence and understanding as they progress on their educational journey.
