Findings of The National Inquiry into the Teaching of Literacy in Australia
The National Inquiry into the Teaching of Literacy in Australia found that early, systematic and explicit teaching of phonics is a necessary part of an integrated approach to the teaching of reading.
In the first three years of school – and beyond if necessary – all children learn best within an integrated approach to reading, which teaches phonics, phonemic (sound) awareness, fluency in reading, vocabulary and text comprehension.
Phonics is the relationships between letters and sounds.
Fluency is the ability to read quickly and naturally, recognize words automatically, and grouping words quickly.
Vocabulary knowledge is remembering new words and what they mean.
Text comprehension is processing what is being read and developing higher-order thinking skills.
Over the past twenty five years or so much scientific research has been undertaken into how children learn to read and write.
Many of the findings are now being incorporated into best teaching practice.