Includes bibliographical references (p. [121]-126) and index.

Sensible approaches to the teaching of reading -- Critical contexts -- The role of the teacher -- Knowledge for reading -- Environments for reading -- Resources for reading -- Reading routines -- Talk, reading and writing -- Assessment of reading -- Conclusions : Principles and practice.

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 graduate levels, the book will also be useful for advisors working on continuing professional development.