Sunshine Books Blog
Welcome to the Sunshine Books Blog!
Our blog is updated each month with a new post on a topic relevant to teachers. Our posts discuss practical ways that teachers can implement a structured literacy approach to teaching in their classrooms.
Reading Comprehension (Part 2 of 2)
Reading Comprehension (Part 2 of 2) Practical classroom activities to help build reading comprehension This blog is Part 2 of a two-part blog on comprehension.
Reading Comprehension (Part 1 of 2)
Reading Comprehension (Part 1 of 2) At some point in our teaching careers we have all come across those students who after reading a page
Let’s Talk: Strategies
Let’s Talk: Strategies for Oral Language Success “Reading and writing float on a sea of talk.” – James Britton 1970 It is widely accepted by
From Misspelt to Mastered
From Misspelt to Mastered: Understanding Spelling Instruction The importance of teaching spelling has long been overlooked. If you trained as a teacher during the ‘balanced
Words Matter
Words Matter: Elevating Vocabulary Instruction in the Classroom David Geary, in his work on cognitive development, introduces the concept of Biological Primary Knowledge as a
Navigating the Classroom
Navigating the Classroom: Small Group Instruction vs Whole Class Instruction in Years 0-3 This blog aims to spark dialogue and encourage educators to critically examine
Mastering Reading Fluency
Mastering Reading Fluency – The Pillar to Solid Reading Comprehension In the vast landscape of reading instruction, fluency stands as a crucial pillar to comprehension.
Understanding the challenges and terrain faced by older children who are struggling readers
Understanding the challenges and terrain faced by older children who are struggling readers One of the most challenging obstacles faced by older struggling readers is
The What and How of Explicit Instruction
While it’s true that human beings have inherent cognitive abilities that aid in navigating the world and acquiring certain skills, there are crucial areas, particularly
Unlocking the Magic of Literacy
The Hidden Powers of Take-Home Reading In the realm of education, where debates about the efficacy of homework persist, there is a beacon of hope
Teaching Tricky Words in a Phonics Programme
What is a Common Exception Word or Tricky Word? This is any word that has a sound or sounds in it that the children have not been taught
What are decodable books?
What are decodable books? Decodable books are designed to support a Synthetic Phonics method of teaching reading. In Synthetic Phonics, letter sounds (phonemes) and the
7 Steps to help you implement the Science of Reading
1. Read, listen and learn Read articles, listen to podcasts, watch webinars, and participate in professional development pertaining to the Science of Reading and how