English at NKPS
The English curriculum is built around the three interrelated strands of Language, Literature and Literacy. Teaching and learning programs should balance and integrate all three strands. Together the three strands focus on developing students’ knowledge, understanding and skills in listening, reading, viewing, speaking, writing and creating. Learning in English builds on concepts, skills and processes developed in earlier years, and teachers will revisit, strengthen and develop these as needed.
Parents and caregivers have an important role to play in children’s literacy development both before and after they start school. The foundations of literacy – phonological awareness, vocabulary and oral language – begin to develop in the early years of life, before children begin formal reading instruction at school.
A child’s experiences and home environment during their early years of life have a strong and measurable effect on their literacy skills before they reach the classroom.
Engaging children in play-based literacy activities encourages the development of phonological awareness, vocabulary and oral language, as well as other knowledge essential for learning to read.
For example, by playing word games, using rhymes to explore the sound structure of the English language, and teaching them about the alphabet, letter-sounds and print concepts through directed, play-based activities.
Parents can also enhance their children’s vocabulary and oral language through informal activities, such as providing access to books and educational toys, reading books together, and trips to the library or museums.
One of the most effective things parents can do is TALKING with children, listening, and answering their questions.
Once children start school, parents continue foster reading development by maintaining shared reading activities, ensuring children have reading material at the appropriate levels and following their progress.
