Ten top tips for literacy learning

• 5 Stars

Literacy is a hugely significant element of a child’s education. Lacking the basic skills required for everyday communication can seriously infringe on a person’s quality of life, both as a child and in adulthood. In fact, statistics from a 2008/2009 Government review demonstrate that 5.2 million Brits do not possess the fundamental literacy skills required in daily life (see www.publications.parliament.uk). Currently endeavouring to maintain support for children as they develop literacy skills means that schools face the challenge of constantly conjuring up new techniques for inspiring learners via effective, yet fun and engaging activities.

Catherine Thornley of Smart Learning, an independent publisher of educational resources including Interactive Literacy for Key Stages 1 and 2, provides ten top tips for engaging children in literacy. Five of her tips are specifically for teachers, whilst the second five are especially designed to help support literacy skills at home. After all, developing literacy skills should not be restricted to classroom learning – both the external environment and daily interaction experienced in everyday life contribute towards the overall development of literacy.