Consistency

Definition : "Strong literacy routines are recognised and understood by the children."

Consistency involves the setting of specific routines that are understood and adhered to by the children. Whilst this may be an important factor in classrooms in general, the establishment of routines is particularly important in the early years of school.

This practice was evident when teachers demonstrated predictability in the way learning was framed and encouraged. It was the only teaching practice in the participation dimension observed in every classroom, but there was some variation in its frequency of use across classrooms.

All but one of the more effective and effective teachers were observed building consistency and predictability into their classroom environments in all observed episodes. These teachers' classrooms ran smoothly and were highly predictable. In contrast, two of the less effective teachers struggled in this area and some of their activities seemed somewhat chaotic and unplanned.

At times this consistency was demonstrated in common procedures and routines that enabled children to confidently embark on learning activities.