Implementing PLD in Year 1 & 2

In Years 1 and 2, students dive into the exciting world of reading and writing. They discover the magic of reading to learn and express their ideas through writing. Whilst they start by writing phonetically, they gradually transition to using phonics and high-frequency words in their writing. The way in which they read aloud also transformsโ€”from sounding out words to reading fluently and confidently. As they progress, reading, spelling, and writing become easier and more natural. Although literacy takes the spotlight in these formative years, we also focus on developing motor skills and oral language.

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In the Classroom

PLD offers convenient downloadable implementation manuals that provide a step-by-step approach for each term. These manuals comprehensively cover PLDโ€™s Teaching and Screening & Tracking processes.

Professional Development for Year 1 & 2 Educators

For Year 1 and 2 teachers, embarking on professional development is an essential step. Whether you’re new to PLD this year, seeking a refresher (after a lapse of 3+ years), or transitioning to a new grade level, the options below cater to your needs:

  • Option 1: The most efficient and cost-effective way to enhance your skills with PLD is by enrolling in the ‘Implementing SSP in Year 1 & 2‘ online course. The 2.5-hour course aligns with Australian Professional Development Standards. (Installment 1 is available as a free preview). 
  • Option 2: Reserve your spot for one of the engaging PLD Literacy and Learning seminars held across Australia.
  • Option 3: Explore the educational video resources on our website, such as “PLD’s Essential Overviews” for each term, as shown below.

Term 1

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Term 2

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Term 3

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Term 4

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If you have completed PLD Year 1 & 2 professional development within the last three years, we recommend attending a refresher course to maintain the successful implementation of PLDโ€™s SSP Programs. Explore more below.

Key PLD Resources for Successful Implementation

PLD’s resources are built upon international research, evaluated by independent experts, and consistently updated to reflect the latest findings. Our evidence-based programs are conveniently available in Starter Packs, each offering a 15% discount. These recommended programs form a foundation for successfully executing the ‘Teaching Sequences’ detailed in the Year 1 & 2 Teaching Sequence Manual.

Unsure about the PLD programs your school already possesses or requires? Utilise the Year 1 & 2 Resource Checklist as your guide. This resource helps identify current titles within the school and pinpoint the important resources needed for every classroom.

PLD Tracking Sheets in Year 1 & 2

The downloadable PLD Tracking Sheets play a significant role in PLD’s methodology. These sheets bridge the gap between the Year 1 & 2 Teaching Sequence Manual and the Year 1 & 2 Screening & Tracking Manual. By conducting progress assessments at the start and end of each term, children’s capabilities are mapped onto the Tracking Sheets, resulting in the formation of three distinct groups that serve as the base for targeted instruction. This approach allows classroom teachers to report on the skills progress in their classroom and simultaneously create an implementation plan.

Prepare to Use the PLD Tracking Sheets in Your Classroom

  • To access and download the PLD Tracking Sheets, please click HERE. Note: Please note that for whole-school implementation, this step should already be taken care of by a school leader or
    administrator.

How to Conduct Screening & Tracking with PLD

Screen the Students in the Class

Each term, follow the structured teaching and screening process outlined in the Year 1 & 2 Teaching Sequence Manual and the Year 1 & 2 Screening & Tracking Manual. Record the captured scores in the Tracking Sheets.

Input Results into the PLD Tracking Sheets

Enter the screening results from each assessment round into the PLD Tracking Sheets. To facilitate this data entry, refer to the Year 1 & 2 Screening & Tracking Manual, which offers a comprehensive guide to PLD’s screening and tracking process. If needed, the training video above can provide further assistance with using the Tracking Sheets effectively.

Group the Class into Three Targeted Teaching Groups

Instead of arranging students alphabetically, create a purposeful implementation strategy that groups high-performing, average, and delayed students together. This approach forms three distinct teaching groups, fostering a targeted and effective teaching approach

PLDโ€™s Step-by-Step Implementation Checklist

Step 1: Complete professional development, whether through an online course, seminar, or consultation with our Team.


Step 2: Download essential Teaching & Screening tools for the year, including:


Step 3: Review the essential programs already in your school and select the programs needed for the upcoming year.

Step 4: Download and set up the Tracking Sheets if not already done by the school leader or admin.

By following this four-step process, Year 1 and 2 teachers can effectively implement Structured Synthetic Phonics (SSP) in their classrooms. This approach will contribute to a successful start for Year 1 and 2 students in their academic journey.

If you have any questions about implementing PLD or any of the steps mentioned above, please feel free to reach out to us through our online chat in the bottom right corner of this screen. We are always here to assist you.