Hands-On Education’s Method for Developing Literacy
The British government emphasizes the significance of fostering a passion for reading in children that will last a lifetime. Reading is comprised of two components: language comprehension and word reading. Language comprehension, which is critical for both reading and writing, begins from birth and is developed through adult-child conversations about the world and books, sharing rhymes, poems, and songs. Skilled word reading, which is taught later, involves decoding unfamiliar printed words and quickly recognizing familiar ones. Writing involves both transcription (spelling and handwriting) and composition (expressing ideas and structuring them verbally before writing).
In order to foster a passion for reading in children, it is important to provide them with access to a wide range of books that cater to their interests and reading abilities. Parents and caregivers can also read aloud to children and encourage them to read aloud themselves to improve their language comprehension. Additionally, it is important to make reading a fun and enjoyable activity, rather than a chore or obligation.
Word reading skills can be developed through phonics instruction, which teaches children the relationship between sounds and letters. This can be supplemented with sight word recognition, which involves memorizing common words that appear frequently in text. As children progress in their reading abilities, it is important to provide them with opportunities to practice and apply these skills through independent reading and guided reading activities.
Writing skills can also be developed through practice and instruction. Transcription skills such as spelling and handwriting can be improved through targeted instruction and practice activities. Composition skills can be developed through brainstorming and planning activities, as well as through opportunities to write in a variety of genres and for different purposes.
By fostering a love of reading and providing children with the skills they need to decode and comprehend written language, we can set them up for a lifetime of success in all areas of their lives.