Foundations for Literacy Instruction
Before effective literacy teaching can begin, it is vital to establish a strong foundation rooted in inclusive, equitable, and evidence-informed principles. These foundations ensure that all learners — including those with complex needs — are recognised as capable, active participants in meaningful literacy learning. These foundational elements provide a framework to guide educators in their planning, reflection, and practice.
All learners are capable of literacy learning. High expectations and inclusive mindsets are essential.
Learners need support to understand that letters and symbols represent sounds in spoken language.
Print carries meaning. Learners must be guided to understand how print is organised and used.
Reading fluency includes accuracy, pace, and expression. Learners benefit from repeated, supported reading of meaningful texts.
Writing is complex, but breaking it into smaller steps makes it more accessible and engaging for all learners.
Planning, focus, and self-monitoring are vital for literacy tasks and can be supported with structure.
Frequent, meaningful exposure to a variety of texts builds familiarity and motivation to engage.
Learners benefit from activities that build awareness of sounds, syllables, and rhymes in spoken language.
All learners need access to engaging, appropriate, and adapted books for enjoyment and learning.
Making meaning from text. Learners need explicit support to understand, interpret, & respond to what they read.
Support is needed to put thoughts into visual form by developing the physical / technical skills involved in writing or typing.
Literacy should be taught as a tool for connection, learning, and self-expression — not just mechanics.
Reliable communication systems are critical for participating in and making progress with literacy.
Rich language input and opportunities to express ideas support the development of literacy skills.
Writing should be accessible to every learner through a range of tools, supports, and methods.
Shared, responsive reading experiences where learners actively engage with texts through conversation, questioning, and connection.
Learners must be supported to create and express meaning through writing in authentic ways.