Key Words work because it is:

• Complete – including writing (c series) and phonics (c series)
• Old fashioned in its thoroughness – words are introduced in a series, repeated within book, reinforced in different context (b series) and allied with writing (c series)
• Clear as to method. Reading schemes currently need to have a clear and a single message

The main benefits are that it is:

• Based on acclaimed research of lasting relevance. (Concept of key words high frequency words remains in National Curriculum, and the new phonics programme).
• Clear and straightforward for parents and teachers to use
• Clear message, clear progression
• Gives early feeling of mastery of reading a real book
• Clear pictures children and parents like
• Gives children a solid foundation of the most frequently used words so that they can concentrate fully on the more complex words they meet as they progress

© Geraldine Taylor

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