Can you imagine your life without reading, writing and knowing how to use a web browser? Well, no one can deny that literacy is the ultimate investment in the future. Learning to read and write is essential if we want to build a better world.
That's why International Literacy Day is certainly worth our attention! But how can you celebrate the importance of literacy in the ELT classroom? Let's find out!
The Little Lending Library Project
📖 First of all, ask your ELT learners to finish the sentence 'If I was illiterate and couldn't read and write, I ...' and see what they think of the importance of literacy. Is it important whether you are 5 or 95?
📌 So, what's the best way to promote literacy? And what can you do to help your students to improve their literacy skills? Hmm... What about a new library? Have you ever considered creating one in your ELT classroom or school? Your English students will be encouraged to borrow some books to read at home, they may use some of the books as reference sources for their projects and they are certainly going to understand that many inventions, scientific discoveries and new ways to see the world have started with a book!
📌 Start with a variety of high-quality books for all ages and reading levels. And bear in mind that while some books are classics, most students may not be thrilled to see them on a bookshelf (#sorrynotsorry)! That's why you need to have some contemporary children’s literature and teen novels in your little lending library. Graphic novels, comics and graded readers are some great options, too. In addition, you could ask your English learners to bring and share their favourite English books. Start small, spread the word, be patient and you'll slowly build a good collection for all ages that will turn your students into avid readers.
📌 Your little lending library could also be a great starting point for other activities and creative tasks. For example, young students could create their own bookmarks or different book covers. Older English learners could work on book presentations and reviews. In addition, a simple speaking activity based on a book that each student has chosen could get everyone talking! Just ask the following questions: Why did you choose this book? Did you find it interesting? Why/ Why not? Who are the main characters? How does the book end? Did you like its ending? Why/ Why not? Does your book have a lesson to teach?
📌 Don't forget to encourage young learners' parents to borrow books when they pick their children up. You could also explain that creating a reading spot at home and keeping it vibrant with lots of colours and patterns can really motivate most kiddos to read... a little bit more! And if students' parents ask you what else they could do, just encourage them to get their youngsters the English version of the stories and books they already love! Reading a familiar book is always a great way to learn an unfamiliar language.
📌 For older students, explain that extensive reading can work wonders when it comes to learning a language and succeeding at exams! And if your students happen to be technology fans, they can find so many books in digital format to read on a tablet, smartphone or e-reader. Best of all, some of these are free!
📌 And, at the end of the school year, your bookworms (aka your students) could donate some of their favourite books to a literacy charity; what a great way to inspire your English learners to help others and promote literacy!
