At South Craven, we know that reading is crucial to our students’ success and wellbeing. As such, it is a key priority across the whole school.
We aim to instil a ‘reading for pleasure’ ethos in students as soon as they begin their South Craven journey in Year 7. We emphasise the importance of reading practice and in both Years 7 and 8, all our students are enroled in Accelerated Reader, so they can develop a reading habit. Research has shown that good readers are often those who are making the right book choices; they choose books they enjoy, therefore read more and become more proficient. We therefore strive to create an environment where books are readily available in our Learning Resource Centre and recommendations are discussed. We also arrange visits from authors.
These Year 7 and 8 students enjoy a dedicated reading lesson each week, delivered by English specialists, which focus on core reading skills. Homework in English tasks are also built around practising a range of these reading skills. Two English groups in Year 7 work with a Primary School specialist to develop their English skills. Tutor time also gives students in Years 7 and 8 the opportunity to read. There is also a Book Club for these Year groups and those in Key Stages 3 and 4.
The emphasis on reading doesn’t stop there. Tutor time is also used in Years 9-13 to focus on reading skills. In Year 9, English homework has a strategic reading focus whilst ‘Reading Matters’ google classrooms, provide students in these Year groups with book recommendations. All students can use the LRC to enjoy reading in a quiet space.
Crucially, our staff understand the importance of reading and our CPD work has concentrated on the importance of teaching key vocabulary and ensuring texts are chosen carefully to match students’ reading ability. Recently, we introduced a whole school reading strategy called ‘SCQ’ or ‘Summarise, Clarify and Question’; this gives students a framework to ensure they are reading a text closely.
NGRT tests have also been used to screen students in KS3 and 4 so that we fully understand the different abilities and needs of our students. Layered intervention is now being developed to support students with their reading.
Reading in Years 7 and 8
Accelerated Reader
Accelerated Reader is computer programme used to motivate students to read, monitor their progress and reward them for doing so.
It ensures students read the right book for their ability and checks their understanding of a book they have read.
It also promotes and encourages regular reading practice, both at school and at home.
Students will take a STAR test in September, January and April that will generate a reading age and a book level. They can then choose books that fall within their book level and are appropriate for their ability.
Key Websites
Renaissance Home Connect
Improves the school-to-home connection.
Allows parents and students to log in to a website and view the student's reading practice and their progress towards their goals.
