Literacy Update
Comprehension strategy - Predicting
In reading comprehension, predicting is a strategy that helps readers think ahead about what might happen in a text. Before reading, students use clues such as the title, front cover, pictures and headings to make an informed guess about what the text could be about and what might happen. As they begin reading, they continue to adjust and refine their predictions based on new information.
As reading continues, students pause to check and evaluate their predictions. They think about whether their ideas were correct and use evidence from the text to confirm or change their thinking. It is important for students to understand that it is okay for predictions to change as they read, as new information often leads to a better understanding of the text.
Predicting is important because it builds curiosity and supports deeper comprehension. It helps students stay engaged and actively think about the text while reading, rather than just following the words on the page.
At home, you can support this by:
- asking your child to predict what a text might be about using the title and front cover before reading
- encouraging them to explain why they think that
- pausing during reading to ask, “Has your prediction changed? What new information made you think that?”
- talking about how and why predictions change as more of the text is read
The importance of handwriting
Even though students are using technology more often in their learning, handwriting continues to be a very important skill. Being able to write neatly and clearly helps students present their ideas with confidence and take pride in their work.
An important part of developing handwriting is learning correct formatting habits from an early age. At school we use Victorian cursive script, and teaching correct letter formation is a key focus. Learning how to form letters properly helps students develop fluency over time, so their writing becomes smoother, faster and easier to read. Letter formation, spacing, sizing and positioning on the line all help make writing clearer and more consistent. These small habits make a big difference over time.
Like any skill, handwriting improves with regular practice. This can be supported at home through simple everyday activities such as:
- writing shopping lists together
- practising spelling words
- keeping a journal
writing cards or notes to family and friends
In the junior years, handwriting practice is especially important as students build the foundations of correct pencil grip, posture, fine motor skills and letter formation. Regular classroom practice helps students develop consistency and confidence in their writing.
As students move into the upper years, the responsibility gradually shifts to them to maintain neat, legible handwriting across all areas of learning. The habits developed in the early years continue to support students throughout their schooling and beyond.
Working together, both school and home can help students develop strong handwriting habits and pride in the presentation of their work.
Library and take home reader borrowing
As we approach the end of Term 2, please note that Week 9 will be the final week for borrowing both library books and take-home readers.
During Week 10, all library books and take-home readers should be returned so that we can complete our library and reader stocktake, follow up on overdue items, and prepare the collection for Term 3.
Please take a moment to check at home for any library books or readers and return them with your child.
To keep up the great reading habits over the holiday break, families are encouraged to visit and borrow from the local public library. It's a great way for students to continue exploring new books and enjoying reading during the holidays.
Thank you for your support in helping us maintain our library and readers collection.
Wishing you a great week ahead.
Bernadette Parnis | bparnis@sfmoreland.catholic.edu.au