Essentials Phonics (RS Essentials) - Softcover

The revised Teacher Standards effective from 1st September and the requirement 'if teaching early reading, demonstrate a clear understanding of systematic synthetic phonics' make this a timely publication. Phonics Essentials is what it says. In 120 pages it sets out the knowledge and skills required to plan and deliver phonics for children at the early stages of learning to read. However this is neither a simplistic book nor a dry and monotonous text. It manages to pack in more than many other phonics text books twice its length. Call-outs demarcating specific subject knowledge, top tips based on sound pedagogy and information boxes are scattered throughout, supporting well set out chapters. The page presentation is engaging and easy on the eye and the book is easy to navigate with terminology explained clearly when first encountered and in the glossary. The book is well structured moving from phonics specifics - cracking the code - to pedagogy for the discrete sessions. Using the Simple View of Reading to illustrate the reading and writing process, Phonics Essentials deftly avoids a one-dimensional approach and importantly promotes the need for phonics to be applied in reading and writing in meaningful contexts. It sets out, clearly and succinctly, the connection between decoding and comprehension. The need for a systematic and consistent approach to phonics is rightly emphasised. The book is aimed at non-specialist teachers including NQTs and trainee teachers and this book serves this audience very well. At a modestly priced, £12.99 this should be a core text in ITT. I would also suggest that literacy subject leaders and SENCOs in both primary and secondary schools keep a copy on their bookshelf in order to support colleagues and those who could be classed as 'Phonics Phobics'. This book could just be the cure. --Laura Sharp, Literacy Consultant

Having used a variety of Rising Stars resources before, including the superb ICT Essentials there was a certain level of expectation I anticipated from this publication, and as always it did not fail to deliver! Having worked across Key Stage 1 and EYFS over the course of my career I have taught my fair share of Phonics Lessons, however Phonics Essentials provided me with new and insightful ideas on how to improve and enhance my lessons. It breathed fresh air into what can sometimes be monotonous rigmarole and will help to ensure that my children stay engaged and are stimulated throughout the session. But not only does Phonics Essentials provide excellent tips and tools for the more experienced teacher, it also provides a solid bedrock to begin the teaching of phonics for NQT s and teachers new to the teaching of Phonics. Introducing them to the method of teaching synthetic phonics and the best practice for progressing through each of the learning phases. It also includes superb guidance on the introduction of tricky words and how best to embed them into your teaching. All in all Phonics Essentials is another excellent title from Rising Stars, and I highly recommend the purchase of this range of books. --Matt Rogers, Snowsfields Primary School

'Rising Star Essentials' are designed to give teachers and quick and easy way to bookst their knowledge and skills. These handy paperbacks offer unique and creative ideas for making teaching even more rewarding.