Wellbeing - Middle School

So, you think I should read?!

Putting aside some time for reading is so important during these formative middle school years. A lot of research shows a range of psychological benefits from reading. Reading fiction can increase your capacity for empathy especially and curiosity - through the process of seeing the world through a different means and at times through relatable characterisations presented in novels. 

People (aged 16-65) in Australia show above-average proficiency in literacy, and problem solving in technology-rich environments compared with adults in the other countries participating in the survey. In some cases, boys’ literacy issues are related to gaps in foundational literacy skills that may persist beyond early childhood years particularly around kindergarten. These boys may have a skill barrier to reading fluency which can hold them back. Positive attitudes towards reading that lead to reading frequency are in turn related to literacy skill development, particularly in relation to reading comprehension. We use many approaches with data to inform our classroom practice- such as Allwell (Year 4, Year 6, Year 8, Year 10 testing) NAPLAN (Year 5, Year 7, Year 9 testing) to track reading and as such, tailor our learning activities in the classroom and ensure boy’s remain confident with their learning.

But we need more of our young men in this realm. Once our young men establish independence in reading, they then need to read regularly in order to both maintain and develop their reading skills. One of the roadblocks is time - we know they are so busy, so let’s start with some simple goals.

1. Occasional readers can become frequent readers by reading 10 minutes before bed every night. At the average rate of 300 words per minute, you will read 90,000 words a month.

2. Carry a book with you at all times, or leave books around the house in convenient places- after dinner on the couch, next to bedside table etc.

3. Read on topics you enjoy; it doesn’t always just have to be a novel. 

Let’s continue to promote reading here at SPC. In boys’ education, we can always do more in this space. Developing the cognitive stamina needed for deep reading is both important at school and at home and can have such wonderful impacts on mental well-being.

Alexandros Sinadinos

Director of Middle School