Reading
We want our students to be confident, fluent readers who enjoy challenging texts.
Our approach to reading is based on the following three principles:
- Reading ability is the most important predictor of academic success across the curriculum
- The only way to get better at reading is to read
- Reading can be vital for student well-being
Reading in key stage 3
In key stage 3, we have a structured reading curriculum and a focus on reading for pleasure:
- Library lessons: In Years 7 and 8, students have a Library lesson every two weeks. This is delivered by your child’s English teacher. Library lessons are a time to explore different books, take a quiz on a book they've just finished, and share reading recommendations.
- Measuring reading progress: We assess students’ reading progress each term using a programme called Accelerated Reader. The results enable us to guide your child to books which will challenge them and be enjoyable. Students are given their Reading Range each term and are encouraged to choose books within this range. Your child can see all this information by logging on to their Accelerated Reader account.
- Private reading time: There are opportunities for private reading in lessons, form time and social time. Students should have a reading book in their bag at all times.
- Reading across different subjects: Developing your child’s reading skills is a whole school responsibility and subjects include reading within the key stage 3 curriculum. Some subjects, such as History and English, prioritise reading when setting homework. Other subjects, such as Design and Technology, frequently include a reading task at the start of lessons.
- Reading homework diary: In Years 7 and 8, we ask students to read an appropriately challenging book (within their Reading Range) for 20 minutes every school day, and record that reading in their reading homework diary. They are expected to bring a reading book and their homework diary to every English lesson, and to ask their parent or carer to sign their diary every fortnight. In addition, students will be given an ATL grade for their attitude to reading every two weeks.
Reading in key stages 4 and 5
At key stage 4 and 5, your child will be expected to read extensively across all subjects, and the curriculum has been designed to support students’ reading for learning. Teachers will set challenging texts in class and for homework.
The Library
Silverdale has a well-stocked library (or learning resource centre) for students and staff to use. It is open to everybody from 9:15am and at break and lunchtime. The librarian is Mrs Senior.
- Sixth formers are welcome to work in the library at any time.
- Homework also takes place in the library, every day until 4:15pm.
- Our library catalogue can also be browsed online.
Students in Years 7 and 8 have fortnightly English lessons in the library with their English teacher and the librarian. This lesson focusses on:
- Developing the habit of reading for pleasure.
- Becoming a more confident reader and library user.
- Exploring different sorts of literature and book genres.
Students in Years 7 and 8 have fortnightly English lessons in the library with their English teacher and the librarian. This lesson focusses on:
- Developing the habit of reading for pleasure.
- Becoming a more confident reader and library user.
- Exploring different sorts of literature and book genres.
Our library contains lots of non-fiction and fiction, including graphic novels, manga and books designed for dyslexic readers. Choosing books can be overwhelming, so there are some downloadable lists of recommended books available at the bottom of the page.
From Year 8, students can volunteer as Student Librarians. This is good fun and promotes responsibility, team work, commitment and organisation – and earns achievement points!
Frequently asked questions
What support is there if my child is finding reading difficult?
We have a number of support programmes for students who are struggling with reading. We will contact you if we think your child would benefit from extra support.
What should I do if I’m worried about my child’s reading?
Please contact school. The reading team meet regularly to discuss students’ progress in reading, and we will be able to explore how we can best work with your child.
How can I help at home?
Encourage your child to read for 20 minutes every day, if possible. Talk to your child about what they’re reading – research has shown that adult-child conversations around books are beneficial. Make sure your child has a reading book in their bag and that they change it regularly. If your child is reluctant to read, listening to challenging texts is still very valuable. Read aloud to your child (they're never too old for this!) or there are lots of free audiobooks online, such as via the Libby app and sites like BBC Sounds. Listening to books will give your child access to new vocabulary, challenging ideas and ‘a window on the world’ that they might not be able to access on their own.
