Reading

Today’s reader submission is by Sir Jim Rose, author of the influential 2006 UK report The Independent review of the teaching of early reading, which led to the adoption of mandatory teaching of systematic synthetic phonics in English primary schools. Here, he discusses ‘the simple view of reading’ and its implications.

A government advisory panel has recommended the introduction of national literacy and numeracy checks in Year 1 as a way of identifying students who need additional support. Here we take a closer look at the report, including the benefits and challenges raised by teachers and principals.

The decision to move NAPLAN online provides an opportunity to place less emphasis on comparing the performances of schools and more emphasis on supporting student learning, according to Professor Geoff Masters AO.

The annual Civica Libraries Index compiled a list of the top 10 most borrowed picture books from regional and metropolitan libraries across Australia. So, which popular titles made the coveted list? Find out in today's infographic.

If you’re looking to add books to your library or create a classroom collection, a student suggestion box could be one source of ideas. There’s also inspiration from outside school in the shape of annual lists of most popular books.

In an effort to better reach students who aren’t engaged in reading, writing and storytelling, staff at this New South Wales school decided to run a literary festival for Year 7 students, inviting a range of different authors, poets, cartoonists, illustrators and performers to run workshops on the day.

The Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) is an international comparative study of student achievement. Here, we look at TIMSS data on books in the home and the percentage of Australian students at or above the proficient standard for maths and science.

How can teachers take advantage of a family’s knowledge that home reading is important, to prompt more of this behaviour? This research used a behaviour science strategy in an effort to increase participation in a reading challenge.

How important are spelling, grammar and punctuation when it comes to primary students’ achievement in writing composition? An Australian study provides some interesting insights.

It’s important to be sensitive as to why students are making spelling mistakes, rather than simply handing back work covered in red marker, language and literacy specialist Lyn Stone says.