Reading is an essential part of teaching and learning
Everyone knows that reading is an important part of the teaching and learning process. In the global society that we live in today this has become more of a necessity, and nowhere is that more important than at RFLS. At RFLS we endeavor to produce students who will change the world one day, and reading is just a small step in reaching that goal.
The English department at RFLS knows that reading is a fundamental skill that all learners will need to be successful, not only at school, but after school and in their future careers as well. We are constantly encouraging our learners to read more English materials, from books, to short stories and even poems. The teachers are dedicated to making sure that each student is able to read the content with understanding. This starts at a young age, and with students as young as grade 1 level. As the students progress through the grades we challenge them with longer and more challenging texts, which they enjoy tremendously.
The question is why? Why, is reading so important for students development? The answer is that it develops the students ability to think and reason. The mind is a muscle and therefore it needs exercise. Understanding the written word is one way the mind grows in its ability. Teaching young children to read helps them develop their language skills, in both English and Chinese.
Reading is also vital in developing your imagination. Reading exposes you to a completely different world, showing you how something that seems impossible, could become a reality. By reading, you are exploring different aspects and situations you might encounter in your daily life. Books are like huge spider webs, where you keep linking different ideas to things that you already know.
This week we celebrated Reading week by encouraging the students to read more books and stories independently. Most of the students love reading, however for most students this is usually mainly Chinese books. We as the English department would love to see more students engaging with English books and stories. On Reading Day, I allowed the students to each choose a book or two that they wanted to read. I then gave them some quiet time during class where they could sit back, relax and read the book at their own pace. Some students quickly finished the books and were eager to read more, so we ended up reading a number of stories in class.
It was truly amazing to see these students enjoy the books they were reading. I hope to make this a monthly event where students can spend some time reading and talking about what they have read in class.
