The ILR Story

How does ILR work?

The English Language has numerous and conflicting rules for reading and spelling.

The ILR Program uses a unique colour and number system to identify the key phonetic sounds in the English language. Comprising 22 vowel sounds, 18 consonant sounds, and 7 digraph sounds, ILR uses a system of universally recognised colours and numbers, to allow every English sound and word to be 'read'. This facilitates the learning of the 2 million plus words of the English language, and will enable early readers and non-English speakers to have immediate access to the correct pronunciation of words, regardless of their complexity.

What is the pace of ILR?

One of the unique features of ILR is the initial, fast-paced delivery of information. All sounds are presented in the English Phonetic Code over a short period of time. This intentional, rapid delivery of information ensures every early reader has access to the complete range of sounds. Subsequently, readers can then access skills and resources at their own level and pace.

This approach is likened to a kitchen pantry, stocked with everything needed to prepare meals. Early readers use what is in their pantry according to their individual skill and confidence levels.

"Early language and communication skills are crucial for children’s success in school and beyond. Language and communication skills include the ability to understand others (receptive language) and express oneself (expressive language) using words, gestures, or facial expressions. Children who develop strong language and communication skills are more likely to arrive at school ready to learn. They also are less likely to have difficulties learning to read and are more likely to have higher levels of achievement in school.

Gardner-Neblett, N., & Gallagher, K. C. (2013) More than baby talk: 10 ways to promote the language and communication skills of infants and toddlers. Chapel Hill: The University of North Carolina, FPG Child Development Institute.

How does ILR fit within the Early Years Learning Framework?

I Love Reading involves short, sharp sessions of intentional teaching of skills to facilitate the reading process.

This approach gives increased opportunities for creativity, open ended investigation and student driven learning. ILR helps develop a learning environment which fosters effective communication and encourages children to be confident and involved learners.

The ILR Program can be easily integrated with all all the components of an early childhood friendly program, filled with rich, real life and hands-on experiences.

How can parents support their child's ILR journey?

Read with your child at every opportunity.
Display ILR resources at home for easy reference.
Have fun decoding everyday words that you see, together.
Discuss alternative spellings of the sounds you read.
Have a variety of reading material available: recipes, fliers, instructions, packaging, fiction and non-fiction books.
Have fun rhyming together.
Celebrate with your child along their reading journey.

Why choose ILR?

Both individual student and classroom results show that the rate of learning English using the ILR Program is significantly higher than conventional methods or programs. By the end of their first year of learning to read, students have generally progressed 1½ to 2 years ahead in their literacy understanding.

Children who learn through the ILR Program have also shown great improvement in the spelling and writing of English, with many students experimenting with writing a year ahead of traditional expectations.

The ILR Program is a fun, innovative and practical tool, which parents and teachers can learn quickly and implement with confidence.

The Mission

To develop young people who can read to learn, build skills for their future, and lead with integrity and purpose to shape a better world for all humankind.

ILR Milestones

2015

Launched school trial with more than 20 students

2016

Launched school trial involving over 100 students

2017

ILR launched as a registered company as a result of positive feedback, and amazing results in the trials
Launched multi-site commercial product involving 500+ students
Launched Teacher Training to equip teachers in implementing ILR

2018

Launched school and childcare products and services to 2000+ students.
Patents overseas
Invitations to educational conferences and exhibitions

2019

ILR implemented in over 60 schools and centres with over 4000 students.
Outcomes quantified from data gathering.
Local Channel 7 News story on ILR receives over 26000 hits.
Launch of ILR @ Home in May 2019, a subscription servce for families.
Extending into New Zealand and overseas market
News article from Gold Coast Bulletin on ILR