Written question asked by Caroline Lucas (Green Party) on Tuesday, 22 March 2011, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 24 March 2011. It was answered by Nick Gibb (Conservative) on Monday, 28 March 2011 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Literacy: Teaching Methods

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education with reference to paragraph 10 of the executive summary of the Schools White Paper, if he will assess the potential effects of introducing a Year 1 phonics screening test on his Department's aim to give teachers renewed freedom and authority; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: ““The Importance of Teaching”” describes how the Government will give teachers renewed freedom and authority to improve schools. It also makes clear the importance of setting clear expectations for what children must know and be able to do at each stage in their education.It is of fundamental importance that all children learn how to read early in their education. Despite the efforts of teachers and parents, 15% of children did not reach the expected level in reading at the end of Key Stage 1 last year. It is vital that we identify those children at an early stage and ensure that they get the extra help they need.Research evidence shows that systematic teaching of synthetic phonics is the best way of teaching reading. The Year 1 phonics screening check will confirm that children are able to decode using phonics by the end of Year 1 and identify those pupils who need additional support.

Secondary information