Andrew Lambirth

Kathy Goouch

"The book’s strength lies in the ability of the contributors to draw conclusions in relation to the reading debate and constructively justify moving away from the reliance on a single phonics approach based on evidence from empirical research. ...The book offers a timely warning against reading becoming synonymous withsynthetic phonics instruction, of children becoming mere ‘functional decoders of print’ (p. 53). The argument turns to the very real need for children to develop andunderstand the ‘joy, relevance and use for reading’ (p. 79); indeed in the current climate of synthetic phonics instruction children are in danger of losing the ability orthe will to look at a book for pleasure." Early Years Debates about the teaching of reading and particularly which phonics method teachers should use have been simmering for many years. This groundbreaking book offers critical perspectives on the teaching of reading and phonics, openly challenging contemporary policy in both England and the US. As well as providing refreshing insights into how children encounter texts in the increasingly complex world of literacy, the book celebrates the complexity, pleasure and passion that are the foundations of becoming a successful reader. Each chapter explores in-depth the processes involved as children engage in reading, from their interactions with texts in the very earliest stages through to the primary phase. Drawing on both research and theory, the book also shows how some contemporary understandings of reading are based on over simplistic and rationalised ideas about the reading process. A unique feature of this book is that it combines academic perspectives with the insights of parents and practitioners. The participation of those most closely involved with children complements the lively debate and contributions from researchers, providing a rich and inclusive range of ideas. Understanding Phonics and the Teaching of Reading is a stimulating read for educational studies students, students of teaching and learning, policy makers, educational researchers and teachers.

EBOOK: Understanding Phonics and the Teaching of Reading: A Critical Perspective

This book supports teachers using phonics in their teaching of early reading. The authors show how important it is to ensure that children acquire a wide range of reading strategies, while also setting out practical 'pointers' which will enable teachers to translate the theory into effective practice. Readers will learn: - How to plan phonics within a rich, interactive and playful literacy pedagogy - How to construct relationships with the young readers in their classes and the texts around them - How to embed the teaching of phonics in carefully selected high quality materials - particularly in children's literature. Written for practicing teachers, student teachers on initial teacher training courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, the book will also be useful for advisors working on continuing professional development. Dr Kathy Goouch and Dr Andrew Lambirth are based at Canterbury Christ Church University in the field of early and primary education and literacy.

Creative Approaches to Early Literacy

Teaching Early Reading and Phonics

Sacha Powell

Tricia David

The Routledge Handbook of Philosophies and Theories of Early Childhood Education and Care brings together leading writers in the field to provide a much-needed, authoritative guide to the major philosophies and theories which have shaped approaches to Early Childhood Education and Care. Providing a detailed overview of key concepts, debates and practical challenges, the handbook combines theoretical acumen with specific examples to show how philosophies and theories have evolved over the centuries and their impact on policy and society. It examines the ways in which societies define and make sense of childhood and the factors that influence the development of philosophies about young children and their learning. The collection offers an insight into the key theorists and considers how the economics and politics of their time and personal ideology influenced their ideas about childhood. It looks at curricula and provision which have proved inspirational and how these have impacted on policy and practice in different parts of the world. The handbook also explores alternative and perhaps less familiar philosophies and ideas about babies and young children, their place in society and the ways in which it might be appropriate to educate them Bringing together specially commissioned pieces by a range of international authors, this handbook will enable academics, research students, practitioners and policy-makers to reflect on their own understandings and approaches, as well as the assumptions made in their own and other societies.

The Routledge International Handbook of Philosophies and Theories of Early Childhood Education and Care

Teresa Grainger

This clear yet authoritative book affirms the vital role of creativity in writing and considers and encourages flexible, innovative practices in teaching. Importantly, the book reflects upon teachers' imaginative and artistic involvement in the writing process as role models, collaborators, artists, and as writers themselves. Arguing that children's creative use of language is key to the development of language and literacy skills, this book focuses on the composition process and how children can express their own ideas. In addition, the authors consider the many forms of creative language that influence the inner and outer voice of children, including reading, investigating, talking and engaging in a range of inspiring activities. Illustrated throughout with many examples of children's writing and drawing, this book also provides suggestions for classroom activities and is a source of inspiration and practical guidance for any teacher looking to deepen their understanding of literacy theory and practice.

Kathy Goouch

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