We love to read, write and talk at Lalor East Primary. Our students are all involved in a daily two hour literacy block where we explore the English language.

During reading sessions there is a strong focus teaching reading and comprehension strategies through the use of quality mentor texts so not only are students taught to summarise, make connections, make inferences and visualise they are also exposed to great literature at the same time. The Big 6 of Literacy also have a place in our daily program with a focus on oral language, vocabulary, phonological awareness, comprehension, fluency and Letter sound knowledge – phonics development.  In each literacy session we use a range of engaging texts including multiple copies of at level books, wordless picture books, novels and big books. Our Preps use a Synthetic  Phonics Program which was developed in Melbourne called “Little Learners Love Literacy”. Each classroom also has its own classroom library which has a wide range of genres and gives students access to books throughout the day for research purposes, Independent reading and reading for enjoyment.

Our writing sessions are based on the Anne Angelopoulos Writing Model, where students have a piece of writing modelled to them one paragraph at a time. Students are then scaffolded to write their own piece using a clearly laid out plan and expectations of what will be in each paragraph. There is a strong focus on vocabulary development and the use of engaging writing devices such as alliteration, similes, personification, onomatopoeia and the use of show don’t tell. In term 4 we conclude the year with a huge whole school Writers’ Festival where all students have a piece of writing and accompanying artwork on display.

Throughout the year we showcase literacy through special celebrations e.g. Dr Seuss Day, International Dot Day, Tournament of Books and Family Literacy Night. Since 2016 we have been partnered with the Berry Street Early Learning is Fun program. Through this partnership we have written, illustrated and published 3 beginning reader titles “Family”, “Let’s Count” and “Staying Healthy”. Each prep student receives a copy of 1 of the books to keep for themselves.