Write how you would create a Reading Environment
Answers
A reading environment cannot be created overnight. It takes a lot of planning, consistent effort and reinforcement to develop a reading habit. The following steps can come in handy.
1. Make books available- For a learner to be interested in reading, it is crucial to have books handy. There should be books available in the school library, for students to browse through. Logically speaking, if there is no access to reading material, there is no chance of developing a healthy reading habit.
2. Ensure that the reading material is age and level appropriate- It is essential to provide books that are in line with the learners’ age and reading level. Anything that is below their level will not be challenging enough while anything that is above their level will be overwhelming. In either case, it will affect learners’ interest in reading.
3. Plan fun activities around reading- In order to make reading interesting, it is essential to plan some activities that will not only complement the reading, but will give the learners a reason to read. This can be in the form of worksheets, discussions or even role play. The teacher needs to be creative to be able to reach out to the students and engage them in the activities.
4. Establish a reading routine- Put aside some time only for reading. Once students get used to the routine, reading will become a part of their regular classes. This will reduce any resistance to reading and will help them gradually build a good habit.
5. Ask parents to encourage reading- As much as teachers want, a reading environment will not be completely successful until there is support from the parents. With both parents and teachers promoting reading, the need to read will be reinforced, thus helping create a reading environment more effectively.
As with academics, the most important part of creating a reading environment is being able to connect with the learners and understanding their likes and dislikes and then planning accordingly.
For example:
The children's age: The reading environment for a 5th grade class will be very different from the reading environment of a 10th grader.
Hence, younger children appreciate colourful surroundings and an 'inviting' environment which is dotted with their favorite story book characters.
10 the Grades would be more comfortable in a more serious environment where noise is not supposed to be made.
Which brings us to our next point:
Noise: Every reading environment needs to be in a place with very little outside noise. While basic sound proofing can be used to obstruct outside noise, disciple needs to be maintained within the reading environment to ensure, children can concentrate on what they are reading.
Collection of Books: Depending on the age and location of this 'reading place', the books should be interesting and something children really want to read.
A reading teacher: Professional reading teachers help to narrate books to children in a style which suits them. Many children who are sometimes not interested in reading a book, pick one up after a reading teacher makes it looks fun and interesting!