Literacy at MHPS

Literacy is about the effective reception and expression of language as a means of learning, as well the development of knowledge about language.  Active participation in society demands that we are literate in speaking, listening, writing, reading, and viewing.  Literate students can contribute to political, social and cultural life and become active and informed citizens.

The staff at Meadow Heights Primary School are committed to ensuring that each and every child has the opportunity to fully develop their English skills in the interconnected modes of reading and viewing, writing and speaking and listening in order to become literate citizens.  The teaching and learning of English occurs through these modes and includes the three interrelated strands of:

• Language: knowing about the English language.
• Literature: understanding, appreciating, responding to, analysing and creating literature.
• Literacy: expanding the repertoire of English usage.

At MHPS there is a strong focus on catering for individual needs through a differentiated classroom program and the provision of additional assistance where appropriate. The Language Support Program (LSP) is supported by our full-time speech pathologist and ES staff. The English as an Additional Language Program (EAL) is implemented by our EAL teacher.  Classroom programs are based on up-to-date assessment data, and use fluid groupings which allow for all students to be scaffolded at their zone of proximal development.

Strong links are formed between school and home with regards to English learning.  All students have the opportunity to borrow home reading books from classroom libraries, as well as from the main school library.

At MHPS all staff have high expectations for student learning and strive to provide high quality instruction for all.

Adam Torchia

Literacy Leading Teacher