How We Use Texts in Our Mixed Year 1/2 Class

In our mixed Year 1/2 class, you may notice that children sometimes explore the same texts that were used in Year 1 the previous year. This is a deliberate and carefully considered approach.

• Texts are vehicles, not the end goal: We choose rich, engaging stories and non-fiction texts that can be accessed by both younger and older children. The text itself is not the curriculum — the skills children develop through reading and writing are.

• Depth and progression: While the Year 1 children may focus on sequencing a story, building simple sentences and practising letter formation, Year 2 children will be challenged to extend their vocabulary, write more complex sentences, develop stamina for longer pieces, and edit their work for accuracy.

• Mastery through revisiting: Revisiting familiar material allows children to build confidence and fluency, while also giving them the chance to look at the same story in new and more sophisticated ways.

• High expectations for all: Even when the starting text is the same, the outcomes are carefully planned so that every child is challenged at the right level for their age and stage. 

This means that, although some texts may be repeated from Year 1, the learning journey for Year 2 children is very different, ensuring they continue to make strong progress in their reading and writing skills.