Mandy Pistorius reports:

At the beginning of 2009, THRASS was introduced in Grade One. THRASS stands for Teaching Handwriting, Reading And Spelling Skills.

This system provides lifelong word-solving skills. The programme includes 44 Phonemes (speech sounds) and 120 Graphemes (spelling choices). Lower case and capitals are identified by name. Continual reference is made to pictures, letters, keywords and whole-picture charts. The charts encourage spatial awareness and provide reference for future study. The THRASS handwriting programme makes an easy transition to Cursive writing. The use of music, song and rhythm makes this an exciting programme. 

The THRASS Night School, presented by Hilary Davies whose husband designed the programme, was well attended. Many lightbulb moments were evident as Hilary unpacked the complicated process of spelling English and how THRASS can help you make an informed decision when encoding or decoding a word. 

The Foundation Phase and Grade 4 staff gathered at school early on Wednesday morning for a workshop on THRASS. We started at 6.45 and, as the subject matter was so engrossing, were shocked when the training ended and it was 1 o’clock. This input was very informative and well presented. In a brain-based school the multi-sensory approach used in THRASS is the best option. 

 

Gavin Keller the principal of Sun Valley Primary School with Hilary Davies of THRASS and Heather Keller.

LEARNING SUPPORT
Small Group Tuition 

Heather Keller reports:

Enrolment in Small Group Tuition has reached an all time high with approximately 150 pupils coming to lessons each week. 

The introduction of THRASS into the Reading and Phonics lessons has been wonderful – the method is so perfect for those who face challenges in Reading, Handwriting and Spelling. It is lots of fun and right from the smallest Grade One to the largest Grade Seven it is having a positive impact on their progress. 

I am looking forward to moving into my new classroom at the beginning of the fourth term – away from all the noise and hub-bub of activity in the hall. The children I teach need peace and quiet with no distractions. So this new classroom off the main passage is going to be very welcome.