Posts by Eve Morton
Reflecting on an effective writing curriculum
The focus on the teaching of reading in schools for the last few years has been high following DfE guidance about teaching phonics and the Reading Framework publication in 2021. This focus has led to greater consistency in the teaching of reading and closing gaps, with a clearer focus on the aspects of reading that…
Read MoreWorld Book Day 2025 – making it meaningful
World Book Day 2025 takes place on Thursday 6th March this year. It provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate books, authors, illustrators, and the love of reading with children and adults alike. Research tells us that reading for pleasure is the single biggest indicator of future success for a child – even above family circumstance,…
Read MoreWhy all the talk about oracy?
It seems almost impossible at the moment to avoid the conversation about importance of oracy in education – and rightly so. As James Britton once said, ‘Reading floats on a sea of talk’ (Britton, 1970, p. 164), but good oracy skills go further than that. Strong oracy skills are essential for our young learners to…
Read MoreChristmas book recommendations for primary schools
The build up to Christmas is well underway in schools: performances and end of term activities adding to children’s excitement! Amidst all this, it can be enjoyable to find some quiet time to enjoy a Christmas story or two. Here are two of my favourites which can be explored as a class, or by children…
Read MoreMore Than Baby Talk: How Nursery Rhymes Can Benefit Older Students
This is world Nursery Rhyme Week and millions of children around the globe will be singing, doing the actions and exploring a range of nursery rhymes. Much research has shown that nursery rhymes are incredibly beneficial for children as they can boost vocabulary and language development; develop literacy and numeracy skills; and develop social and…
Read MoreUsing poetry in teaching: A Tool for the Classroom
Poetry is a little like Marmite – you either love it or hate it! This may stem from your own experiences when you were younger, or perhaps it’s a genre you haven’t explored much. But poetry is more than just rhymes and verses; it is a powerful tool that can transform learning in the classroom.…
Read MoreTeaching reading fluency: a focused look
What is Reading Fluency? Reading fluency involves much more than just reading quickly. A common misconception among pupils—and sometimes adults—is that being a fluent reader means being a fast reader. However, fluency refers to the ability to read smoothly, accurately, and with expression. Fluent readers pay attention to punctuation, phrasing, and the structure of text,…
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