Reading for Pleasure

Research consistently shows that children who enjoy reading are 3 times more likely to read above the level expected for their age than children who do not enjoy reading. This is one of the reasons why we make it our mission to nurture a love of reading in our children from the day they start school.

“Children should learn that reading is pleasure, not just something that teachers make you do in school.” —Beverly Cleary

So how do we make reading a pleasure?

Reading Areas

If you wander around our Primary School, you will notice that every classroom has a comfortable and inviting reading area hosting a wide selection of books, newspapers and magazines which are organised, displayed and selected by the children. Our reading areas are sacred spaces where students nestle in the cushions, alone or with friends, to simply enjoy reading.

Reading Routines:

Consistent reading routines create a safe and predictable environment, allowing children to direct more of their cognitive resources towards their actual reading.

In Year 3 to Year 6, every morning is dedicated to reading, giving students ample opportunities to choose their own books, practice reading in different ways and expand their knowledge of the world. The more they read, the better they become at decoding words, building vocabulary and comprehending text.

“The peacefulness of the calm classroom environment brings joy to us.”–Wawrina 5M

“Reading as a morning routine really takes you inside, like a calming movie that sets me up for a good day.” –Jamie 5M

Teachers Reading to Children:

At Patana we prioritise reading to children. This takes place every day for at least 10 minutes from the Foundation Stage through to Year 6. During this time, the teacher provides a strong model of expressive and engaging reading and the children relax and listen. This is an important component of learning to read as it strengthens bonds and provides a calm, special time.

At Patana we carefully select class novels that are slightly above the children’s independent reading ability, providing an opportunity to stretch their comprehension and critical thinking skills and acquire new vocabulary. Teachers read books that help children make connections to their class-based learning and increase their knowledge of the world.

It is not uncommon for the children to beg their teacher to read the next chapter of their class novel, followed up by a resounding sigh when it is time to go home. Our teachers make listening to stories irresistible.  

“I like listening to stories because I feel like I am in the story.”-Shadae 3T

“I like it when Miss Tracey does the voices of the different characters.” –Sirjan 3T

“I like learning new words and adjectives.” –Taejoon 3T

The Library:

Our library is the beating heart of the school. It is vibrant, exciting, colourful and welcoming with an extensive range of books on offer to cater for everyone’s reading pallet. The library is a hub of information, allowing students follow their own line of inquiry as well as providing a quiet, calm environment for reading and reflection.

Our library represents ‘community’. We urge you to accompany your child to the library and enjoy choosing and reading books together, reinforcing your love of reading.

“Reading should not be presented to children as a chore, a duty. It should be offered as a gift.”–Kate DiCamillo

Competitions, Challenges, Events:

These are just some of the other components that create our dynamic reading culture.

The annual Year 5 Readers Cup adds an element of excitement and competition to the reading diet, inspiring students to explore a range of different genres.

Visits from authors, poets and storytellers offer a unique opportunity to connect with the creators of stories, inspiring creativity.

And finally, some of the most magical reading moments are when our older students buddy up with younger learners to read together and share the stories they have created. This makes reading purposeful and collaborative whilst fostering a sense of community and belonging.

“I will defend the importance of bedtime stories to my last gasp!” —J.K. Rowling

So what can parents do to nurture a love reading?

-Make reading at home a really special time.

-Show your love of reading.

-Talk about books.

-Read to your child or with your child – every day.

-Visit the library with your child and choose and read books together.

-Establish reading routines at home.