In a world that becomes increasingly digital, encouraging students to read for pleasure can be a challenge, particularly when technology seems to dominate their attention. But…we do need children to think about technology and to consider its uses and impact.
The resource, Reading for Pleasure at Key Stage 3 from BookTrust, highlights the benefits of reading for pleasure and how schools can integrate engaging content, including tech-related themes, to help students thrive both academically and socially. This article offers parents and teachers practical tips for combining technology and reading to create a richer learning experience for Key Stage 3 students.
- Connect Books to Technology Interests
- Why it works: Students often spend significant time with technology, including gaming and social media. Encourage them to explore books related to these interests, such as books about coding, video game development, artificial intelligence or social media influencers.
- Tip: Find books that reflect technology-driven worlds, like stories involving artificial intelligence.
- Leverage Digital Formats
- Why it works: Many students are more comfortable with screens. Audiobooks, e-books, and interactive reading apps offer an alternative to printed books and can make reading feel more engaging.
- Tip: Suggest reading apps or e-books on devices your child already uses, such as tablets or e-readers.
- Show Representation in Tech Books
- Why it works: Representation in books matters, especially when related to a student’s interests. Books featuring diverse characters and perspectives in tech or futuristic societies can help to make children feel more connected.
- Tip: Look for inclusive stories with characters who solve problems using technology or explore different cultures through a tech lens.
- Set Time Aside for ‘Tech Reading’
- Why it works: Regular reading time helps children develop a routine.
- Tip: Allocate time for reading tech-related books or articles on devices, reinforcing reading as an enjoyable, not just academic and school activity.
- Model Enthusiasm for Technology and Books
- Why it works: Children mimic adults, so if you show excitement for tech-related books, they are more likely to follow.
- Tip: Share tech articles or books you find interesting and discuss them with your child, such as a biography of a top tech professional.
- Encourage Curiosity with Non-Fiction Tech Books
- Why it works: Many children are naturally curious about how things work. Non-fiction books that explain technology, like how robots or video games are made, can feed this curiosity.
- Tip: Suggest tech-themed non-fiction, from beginner-level books about through to deeper dives into AI or robotics.
- Use Technology to Promote Literacy
- Why it works: Technology doesn’t have to compete with reading. It can enhance it. Use educational games, cyber security challenges and tech-based learning platforms that include reading components.
- Tip: Find tech resources that combine literacy and coding, like interactive coding books or online platforms that teach through reading.
Written by Technology Books for Children
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