International Literacy Day 8th September
Did you know that International Literacy Day has been established since 1967? It was started in order to increase global awareness of the importance of literacy. Improved literacy is linked to better health, cognitive development and communication skills.
Literacy around the world
Sadly, today at least 763 million young people and adults lack basic literacy skills. In poorer countries, figures suggest that 70% of 10-year-olds could not read. Unfortunately, numbers increased due to the impact of the pandemic on efforts to progress literacy globally.
International Literacy Day 2023
For International Literacy Day 2023, the theme is: ‘Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies.’ To read more about how it is to be celebrated, please click here.
Literacy in the UK
99% of people in the UK are literate. However, although this seems high, it means that one in every 100, has problems with reading and writing.
Factors that affect literacy:
- English not a first language
- home and parental influence
- reading issues
- speech difficulties
- hearing, or vision impairments
- socio-economic factors
School tips for teaching literacy
- Create a cohesive literacy learning culture.
- Establish a school library with popular and varied books; everyone like different things.
- Target specific learning such as phonics.
- Encourage discussion and writing about books in class, to develop opinion and share preferences.
- Encourage and involve parents in reading with younger children.
- Consider use of audio books to engage the reluctant reader.
- Highlight success stories from individuals who have overcome challenges through improved literacy.