The Importance of Teaching Reading Across the Curriculum in Primary Schools
As educators, one of our main objectives is to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their future endeavours. While reading may seem like a subject that falls under the English curriculum, it is actually a vital skill that is crucial in all subjects. That is why it is imperative that we start teaching reading across the curriculum in primary school.
What is Reading Across the Curriculum?
Reading is not just about decoding words on a page, but also about comprehending and analysing information. By incorporating reading into other subjects such as maths, science, and foundation subjects, students are able to practise their reading skills in a variety of contexts. This not only enhances their understanding of the subject matter but also helps them develop critical thinking skills.
Why is it Important?
Develops Critical Thinking Skills
Reading across the curriculum requires children to actively engage with texts, which helps develop critical thinking skills. By analysing and interpreting written information from different subjects, children learn to think critically and make connections between different ideas and concepts.
Enhances Vocabulary and Language Proficiency
Exposing children to a range of subject-specific texts can greatly enhance their vocabulary and language proficiency. By reading texts from different areas of the curriculum, students are exposed to a variety of terminology and language styles, which can significantly improve their overall communication skills.
Fosters Lifelong Learning
Reading is a lifelong skill that extends beyond the classroom. When students learn how to read critically and effectively across all subjects, they develop a love for learning and become independent learners. This helps them to continue learning and growing even after they leave school.
Prepares Students for Future Academic and Career Success
In today's information-driven society, the ability to read critically is essential for academic and career success. By teaching reading across the curriculum, we are equipping students with a crucial skill that will benefit them in higher education and their future careers.
How Can We Implement Reading Across the Curriculum?
Incorporate Texts from Different Subjects
As educators, we can incorporate subject-specific texts into our lessons to expose students to a range of materials. This can include news articles, biographies, diary entries, and more.
Teach Reading Strategies
It is important to teach reading strategies explicitly across all subjects. These can include skimming and scanning, making predictions, summarising, and more. By teaching these strategies, students can become more efficient readers.
Collaborate with Other Teachers
Collaboration between teachers and speaking to subject leaders is key to successfully implementing reading across the curriculum. By working together, educators can create cross-curricular activities that promote reading skills in their respective subject areas.
How can you use Fonetti to support reading across the curriculum?
Fonetti offers a wide range of books that cover various subjects vital to the curriculum, including Geography, Science, Maths, and PSHE. These resources provide comprehensive support, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience for children.
If a specific subject is being taught and you wish all students to read a related book, our school portal allows you to assign the book to the entire class. This eliminates the need to purchase multiple copies, giving all children access to the curriculum-based book. Once everyone has read the book, you can facilitate topic-related discussions to further enrich their learning.
