Non-verbal

How can we teach and assess selectively mute pupils in Reception?

Here's some advice for assessing selectively mute or non-verbal pupils:

  • Assessing words: we have included images for every word for all the assessments. Download the images for your assessment. Ask the child to read each word and then point to the correct image.
  • Assessing GPCs: use the grapheme cards. Drop the cards and say the child needs to help you put them away in order. Say the graphemes in the order of the assessment. Can they find them?
  • Assessing Oral blending: use images and ask the child to point to the image.
For teaching – you can use the image bank in the SEND area to support teaching."