Lexia Learning

[Moomalicious]

Hi knowledgeable G&T MN'ers, I was wondering whether any of you have an opinion on whether Lexia Learning (rather prescriptive phonics computer programme usually used for LA children) should be used as extension work for G&T and More Able readers in KS1? Does anyone have any experience of it? Is it any good?

Many thanks in advance!

Hi, I have used Lexia as a teacher working in a pupil referral unit with KS3 kids working way below level. We did have one boy, age 11, who was gifted and he found the higher level programme (level 5 I think?) amusing, but once you've cracked it, there really is no further scope for extension work. The way I see it is that these programmes are no substitute for a good book. They work well with kids who have poor concentration spells, have no access to books in their own home, and need to catch up on reading skills quickly. Whilst a Gand T pupil in KS1 may learn to sound out level 5 words (latin/ greek root based words) will they have the sophistication to use those words in the correct context? Why not try them on a children's paper like First News, progressing to comparative articles in a broadsheet? Children's shakespeare or similar? Hope that helps!

Yes, wonderful help thank you. As it is, my sons school are planning on using Lexia with the G&T children as they are unsure of whether it is actually helping the lower ability children who are on a range of other schemes. They're basically planning on using them as a test group. I was a bit when I found out (as an employee rather than a parent) but may ask that my son is opted out or try and talk them round! They do no extension work with him now (though he is differentiated for fairly well in their guided reading sessions) and it seems a shame that they would rather use Lexia than get them something more fun/worthwhile to do.