ABSTRACT
The pupils are working between two and three National Curriculum Levels behind and are unable to participate fully even when placed with the least able group in the class. The literacy needs of the "out of step" child can rarely be met entirely within the Literacy Hour, especially as the child becomes older and the gap between his or her chronological age and attainment widens. The child will need other opportunities in the school day to consolidate learning and in some cases to be taught specific basic skills. Children should be working to learning objectives from a lower age group or even from a different Key Stage in order that they acquire a firm foundation of basic literacy skills. Supplement sets of books with other materials. Consider the use of non-fiction texts which many 'out of step' children find easier to deal with.
