Improving classroom literacy is crucial for students’ future success. Immersing them in the written word, asking questions about stories, encouraging independent reading and writing, and making literacy fun are effective ways to improve literacy. Technology can also be used to enhance learning.
Few things will be more important to students later in life than their ability to read and write well. Consistently working to improve classroom literacy, from the time students are in elementary school, can help them develop strong grammar skills and make them more thoughtful readers and writers. One of the best ways to improve literacy in the classroom is to immerse students in the written word and make it a part of all different types of activities; for example, surrounding the classroom with literary posters, in addition to making reading a fun and enjoyable activity, are two ways to improve literacy in the classroom without students even realizing it.
Regardless of the age of the students, they should be able to read or listen to a story and then answer questions about that story. Young learners may simply be asked to answer a few questions verbally. Older students can read stories alone or in groups, then answer written questions about these stories or even write formal essays. This will help them think critically about what they are reading and help students start developing their writing skills; teachers can then provide specific comments and feedback on their writing, and students can review their work.
Encouraging students to select books to read on their own and then reflect on this information later, such as in a journal, can also improve classroom literacy. Additionally, many teachers will encourage students to write short stories and then share the short stories with the rest of the class. This can often encourage students to put in a little more effort than they otherwise would, as well as get them used to speaking in front of a group.
It’s important to make literacy in the classroom fun. Vocabulary games with students, for example, can help them build their vocabulary and have fun at the same time. Taking time every day to listen to a story being read aloud or to read a book for pleasure can also help develop this attitude that reading is fun. There are many reading activities that can be found by searching online or in curriculum guides for specific education levels.
There are also technology options to improve literacy in the classroom. Computer games can be a great way for children to improve literacy, since most are familiar with using computers. These also offer great opportunities to give students who excel in reading and writing more learning opportunities, while offering extra help to those students who may be struggling.
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