As part of my Professional Growth Cycle, I have decided to trial the idea of creating literacy resources that are aligned more closely with student interests and learning needs.
This term, I created a custom digital book tailored specifically for one of my target learners. The book is designed to support the phonics focus in our scope and sequence and intentionally builds on the knowledge the student is currently developing through our BSLA-aligned small group sessions.
To ensure alignment and support, I uploaded a screenshot of the small group planning sheet for the decodable text he is currently reading in class.
From there, I used Chat GPT to help me co-create a new story that matches the targeted phonemes and vocabulary. The text reinforces known letter-sound relationships while gently introducing new ones in a familiar, supported context.
But what made this project truly special was the personalisation. I themed the book around this student’s interests, using characters and settings that reflect what excites and motivates them. The visuals were also AI-generated to maintain consistency with the story and provide engaging, supportive imagery that helps with decoding and comprehension.
And because I know this student really loves “I Spy” books, I added a surprise bonus page at the end: a Minecraft-style “I Spy” hunt featuring the story’s character. Hopefully this will turn literacy into a moment of joy, curiosity, and connection.
Click here to see my pukapuka.
Looking Ahead
I’m genuinely looking forward to seeing how this resource is received—particularly whether it helps engage my tauira in reading more both at kura and at home. If the response is positive, I’ll absolutely continue exploring this approach of weaving together our structured learning goals with the personal interests of ākonga.
It’s a small step, but one that reinforces a big idea: when learning feels relevant, relationships deepen and engagement grows. My hope is that this personalised literacy journey will not only support progress but also spark a love for reading in my learners.