Michael Rosen, author and children's laureate, asks if the current political enthusiasm for phonics, designated literacy hours and league tables is turning off young readers, in a video for Early Years and KS1.
Michael examines the evidence for claims that these devices lead to higher literacy standards, but he remains unconvinced. He suggests alternative ways of encouraging reading, and is not afraid of advocating poetry, often one of the most difficult and frightening tasks facing both teachers and their classes.
In his journey to discover ways of improving English literacy, Michael hears from headteachers, literacy experts, teachers, academics and even Jim Rose, whose review of early reading is behind the current push for starting learning with only phonics.
