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I love it when something I do, or conversations I have, lead to something more. After co-writing an article with the school librarian, Clare Brumpton called School libraries and reading development I realised that this is something that school librarians should talk about more. Their role in supporting literacy and reading for pleasure is well known but what about beyond that? Do schools and teachers really understand how their school librarian can support reading across the whole curriculum? It was time to bring it to our Twitter Spaces platform #LSLLTS.
So on the 17th October 2022, along with my co-hosts Ruth Maloney and Sabrina Cox we ran a Twitter Spaces chat called recreational reading, reading for learning and reading for life and we were joined by guest speakers Clare Brumpton and teacher, Gaurav Dubay where we focused on these questions:
It was a lively and interesting chat and as always gave us lots to ponder on. Is recreational reading a better term than reading for pleasure? How do school librarians teach reading for life? Do students really want to research snowmen? (if you listen to the podcast you will understand this comment!). The joys of a live show!
The takeaway from this session for me was this...
How do we inspire students who really don't think reading is for them?
Not all students find reading pleasurable so it is finding the hook that engages them in reading to find out more about a subject they find interesting.
Providing a social conversation about books can be more important than reading intervention.
Students are not good at voicing their own opinions. Book talks encourage that, giving students a voice in a safe environment.
Modelling how to give an opinion... is an important part of the process for some of our students.
"Think before you speak, read before you think" Fran Lebowitz, The Fran Lebowitz Reader
Reading for life - read and understand the highway code, fill in a form or be able to budget for meals. All of these are things that most of our students will need at some point in their lives. Giving opportunities to learn how to do this.
The important relationship with the school librarian can encourage reading.
If you want to hear more check out the full recording on our podcast which can be found here or if you want to download and listen you can from here.
If you want more CPD then follow my monthly #LibraryStaffLoveLearning discussion group where I post up an article and create questions to provide a platform for discussion. This month we are discussing the article talked about above... so a lovely link. Check it out here.
My next training session is on Reading for learning. Find out more here... spaces limited!
If you would like to work with me please check out my membership offer or get in touch to find out more.
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