Phonics Screening KS1

What is the Phonics Screening Check?

The phonics screening check is a short, informal test that year 1 pupils take to assess their ability to read and decode words using phonics rules. . The phonics screening check is taken individually by all children in Year 1, in England during the month of June. It is designed to give teachers and parents information on how your child is progressing in phonics.

What is in the Phonics Screening Check?

The Phonics Screening check consists of 40 words that assess phonics skills and knowledge learned throughout Reception and Year 1. There is a combination of 20 real words and 20 ‘pseudo-words’ (nonsense words/alien’ words). Children will read the words to Mrs Bown in a quiet location. There is no time limit and children can take a brain break if needed. There will be a few practice words first to make sure your child understands the activity and feels comfortable. The check usually takes around five minutes.

The pass mark can vary but is usually set at 32/40. Please remember that children learn at different rates and not reaching the pass mark does not necessarily mean that there is a problem. If the pass mark isn’t reached, additional support will be put in place and your child will re-sit the check the following summer term in Year 2.

What are nonsense/pseudo words and why are they included?

These are words that are phonically decodable but are not actual words with an associated meaning e.g. brip, snorb. Pseudo words are included in the check specifically to assess whether your child can decode a word using phonics skills and not their word memory.

The pseudo words will be shown to your child with a picture of an alien and they will be asked to tell their teacher what sort of alien it is by reading the word. This not only makes the check a bit more fun but provides the children with a context for the nonsense word which is independent from any existing vocabulary they may have. Crucially, it does not provide any clues, so your child just has to be able to decode it. Children generally find the ‘alien words’ funny and enjoy reading them.

What happens to the results?

We will report your child’s results to you by the end of the summer term as well as to the local authority.

Do all schools and children have to participate?

All schools and academies in England must take part in the phonics screening check unless they are an independent school. It may be inappropriate for some children with educational needs to undertake the check. If this is the case, your child’s class teacher will come and talk to you. If you have any concerns, then please do get in touch.

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