Teaching and Learning
Teaching and Learning – Building Knowledge: Why What Children Know Matters
In our previous newsletter, we explored the importance of building knowledge and how what children already know helps them learn new information. This week, we are looking more closely at the connection between background knowledge and reading comprehension.
When we think about learning to read, we often focus on children's ability to recognise words, decode unfamiliar words and read fluently. These are essential skills, but being able to read the words on a page does not always mean a child understands what they are reading.
Reading comprehension depends on both strong reading skills and knowledge of the topic being read about.
Imagine two children reading a passage about a volcanic eruption. Both can read the words accurately, but one child already knows about volcanoes, magma, lava and tectonic plates. This child is likely to find the passage easier to understand because they can connect the new information to knowledge they already have.
This is one reason why developing a broad range of knowledge is so important. At SEPS, we want our students to become confident readers who not only read accurately and fluently but also understand, question and think deeply about what they read.
Through our work towards developing a knowledge-rich curriculum, we are exploring how carefully sequenced learning across subjects such as science, history, geography and literature can strengthen students' vocabulary, understanding and ability to make connections.
The Key Message
Knowledge is the foundation upon which further learning is built. Every book read, conversation shared, new place visited and question explored adds to a child's understanding of the world.
By working together, school and home can help children develop the rich knowledge and vocabulary they need to become confident, curious and capable learners.
How can parents help at home?
There are many simple ways families can help children develop the knowledge they need to become stronger readers.
- Read a variety of books: Encourage children to explore fiction and nonfiction texts about different topics, places and events.
- Talk before reading: Discuss what your child already knows about a topic. Introduce unfamiliar words or ideas that might appear in the text.
- Discuss what you read: Rather than only asking what happened, ask questions such as, "Why do you think that happened?" or "How does this connect to something you already know?"
- Build vocabulary: Explain unfamiliar words and use them again in everyday conversations.
- Explore topics together: If your child is interested in space, dinosaurs or ancient Egypt, find books, documentaries or experiences that help deepen their knowledge.
- Keep reading aloud: Even when children can read independently, reading more challenging books aloud exposes them to rich vocabulary, complex ideas and new knowledge.