Pre-Nursery First Term Literacy Scheme of Work is a carefully designed plan approved by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC). It serves as a structured guide for teachers, parents, and pupils, making it easier to follow a consistent learning path throughout the first term. At this stage, children are just beginning their educational journey, and the scheme introduces them to essential literacy skills in a gradual and enjoyable way.
Young learners are encouraged to develop their speech, recognize sounds, and engage in early reading practices through the use of nursery rhymes, phonics, and interactive classroom activities. For schools in Nigeria, this scheme is not only a requirement but also an effective tool that ensures pupils are prepared for future literacy development while staying aligned with the national curriculum standards.
Pre-Nursery Literacy Scheme of Work (First Term: Weeks 1–12)
| Week | Topic | Teacher’s Activities | Pupils’ Activities | Learning Resources |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Speech – Nursery Rhymes | Teacher guides pupils to sing nursery rhymes, correcting pronunciation. | Pupils sing and attempt better pronunciation. | MP3/MP4 Player |
| 2 | Speech – Sound /a/ | Teacher introduces /a/ sound with rhymes. | Pupils identify and pronounce /a/. | Charts, MP4 Player |
| 3 | Speech – Sound /a/ | Teacher shows objects starting with /a/ (apple, ant, etc.). | Pupils identify and pronounce words. | Charts, MP4 Player |
| 4 | Speech – Sound /a/ | Teacher guides matching and colouring of /a/ sound objects. | Pupils colour and match objects with /a/. | Charts, MP4 Player |
| 5 | Speech – Sound /b/ | Teacher introduces /b/ sound with rhymes. | Pupils identify and pronounce /b/. | Charts, MP4 Player |
| 6 | Speech – Sound /b/ | Teacher shows /b/ objects (boy, bat, book). Pupils colour. | Pupils match, colour and pronounce /b/ words. | Charts, MP4 Player, Crayons |
| 7 | Speech – Sound /d/ | Teacher introduces /d/ sound with objects (dog, doll, day). | Pupils identify, pronounce, and colour /d/ objects. | Charts, MP4 Player, Crayons |
| 8 | Speech – Sound /e/ | Teacher introduces /e/ sound with rhymes. | Pupils identify, pronounce and colour /e/ objects. | Charts, MP4 Player, Crayons |
| 9 | Speech – Sound /f/ | Teacher introduces /f/ sound with objects (fan, film). | Pupils identify, pronounce and colour /f/ objects. | Charts, MP4 Player, Crayons |
| 10 | Speech – Sound /g/ | Teacher introduces /g/ sound with objects (girl, game). | Pupils identify, pronounce and colour /g/ objects. | Charts, MP4 Player, Crayons |
| 11 | Revision | Teacher revises all sounds taught. | Pupils revise and practise. | All resources |
| 12 | Examination | Teacher conducts assessment. | Pupils write or recite answers. | Exam materials |
Importance of the Pre-Nursery Literacy Scheme of Work
The Pre-Nursery Literacy Scheme of Work carries several important benefits that extend beyond the classroom. First, it provides the foundation for reading and writing. By introducing pupils to phonics, speech sounds, and vocabulary, it creates a smooth entry point into literacy. These skills may seem simple, yet they serve as the stepping stones for higher learning in later classes.
Another significant importance lies in its ability to provide a guided learning path. Teachers are not left to guess what should be taught each week. Instead, they follow a carefully structured plan that ensures pupils progress step by step. This consistency prevents gaps in learning and helps pupils achieve the expected outcomes at the right pace.
Even though this stage may appear far removed from senior secondary classes, it plays a role in long-term preparation. The scheme indirectly supports pupils’ readiness for WAEC and NECO by laying the earliest groundwork. A child who learns correct pronunciation, early phonics, and vocabulary at this stage will find later comprehension, writing, and speaking tasks much easier.
Parental involvement is another key importance. Since the scheme is easy to understand, parents can take it home and reinforce lessons using familiar objects. For example, a parent might point to an apple while saying the /a/ sound or hold up a ball to emphasize the /b/ sound. This strengthens the school–home connection and makes learning more natural for the child.
How to Use the Scheme of Work
Teachers can maximize this scheme by following the weekly breakdown carefully. The topics are arranged in sequence to build one skill after another. Teachers should use engaging resources such as rhymes, visual charts, and colouring tasks. These activities do not just teach literacy but also develop creativity and motor skills.
Parents can also use the scheme as a home guide. By paying attention to what their child learns each week, they can reinforce the sounds with simple activities. Everyday objects around the house become useful teaching aids. For example, apples, ants, balls, and bats can all be shown to children while repeating the correct sounds. With regular repetition, pupils become more confident.
Pupils themselves are encouraged to practise regularly. Singing rhymes every morning, repeating sounds, and colouring objects related to each lesson help them internalize the knowledge. Since children learn best through play, combining fun with learning ensures better results.
Conclusion
The Pre-Nursery First Term Literacy Scheme of Work is not just a teaching outline but a complete guide that helps teachers, parents, and pupils work together to achieve strong literacy foundations. Approved by the NERDC, it ensures Nigerian schools follow a national standard while providing children with the skills they need for speech and reading development. By following the weekly plan carefully, pupils gain confidence in pronunciation, sound recognition, and vocabulary building.
Sharing this guide with teachers, parents, and caregivers can help spread awareness about the importance of structured learning at an early stage. Bookmark this page for quick reference and keep the scheme handy throughout the term for smooth teaching and consistent progress.
