Sadly, hundreds of thousands of children in the UK do not own a single book at home. Research shows that children who own books are six times more likely to read above the level expected for their age. Reading fluently doesn’t just help students with English, but develops their general knowledge (essential for History, Geography and RE) and builds problem solving abilities (vital for Science, Maths, and Technology). In fact, research shows that reading makes you a nicer person as it helps increase empathy and students’ ability to understand different cultures and traditions. Naturally, the English department don’t need any convincing about the power of reading! This Christmas we are helping to spread the magic of books by gifting every student in Year 7 with a book to read over the holidays. This is theirs to keep, but we would like to see students share the books they’ve been given by swapping books with their friends, writing reviews and sharing their opinions in English in the New Year. Books are the number one item on the English department’s Christmas list but maybe this is something you’d consider buying for your daughter? We have a list of recommended reads on our website but here are a few of our suggestions… ‘Shell’ by Paula Rawsthorne ‘The Extinction Trails’ by S M Wilson ‘Outwalkers’ by Fiona Shaw ‘The Disappearance of Timothy Dawson’ by Nathan Parker ‘Girl in the Window’ by Penny Joelson ‘How to write a Love Story’ Katy Cannon ‘The Loneliest Girl in the Universe’ by Lauren James Many of these authors have been in to school to visit us over the past few years. As with anything, please check that it is suitable for your daughter before purchase, some of these are a little more mature.
Mrs Woodhouse, Curriculum Leader for English
