Books unwrapped: 8 expert tactics to make reading irresistible for students

Building a vibrant community of readers in your school is an ambitious but attainable goal. Schools that achieve it encourage a shift in perspective, seeing literacy not just as a skill to be developed but as a passion to be nurtured.

By embracing innovative strategies, using technology and fostering a school-wide culture of reading for pleasure, educators can inspire their students to develop a lifelong love of reading.
Below are eight creative ideas for inspiring an engaged reading community in your school, shared by literacy experts at our panel event at Bett 2024.

1. Gift-Wrapped Books
Imagine the excitement of unwrapping a gift. Now, bring that excitement into the classroom. Pamela Hanigan, a visionary teacher at Cawthorne’s Endowed Primary School, has transformed book selection into a thrilling mystery for children. By wrapping books and revealing only the first sentence on the outside, students are drawn into a world of suspense and surprise, making the act of choosing a book as delightful as reading it.

2. Daily Reading to Students
The simple act of reading to students daily can significantly impact their attitude towards books. Rachel Gelder, a dyslexia expert, emphasises that finding time in the crowded curriculum to share stories with children out loud is invaluable. It not only demonstrates to students that their teachers cherish reading but also introduces them to the pleasure found in the rhythm and melody of written language.

3. Boost Reading Across Subjects
Who said reading should be confined to an English lesson? Adam Lancaster, Head of Literacy at Monk’s Walk School, encourages teachers in all subjects to incorporate reading into their lessons. A fun and interesting book or article can stir up a sense of wonder about a subject and spark questions relevant to what pupils are learning. Whether it’s a historical biography in a history class or scientific articles in a science lesson, this approach enriches students’ learning experiences and shows the relevance of reading in understanding the world.

4. Speed Dating with Books
Engagement with reading can skyrocket when students are given the chance to explore a variety of books in a fun and dynamic setting. Following Pamela’s school’s lead, organising a “speed dating” event with books allows students to briefly engage with different texts, making the discovery of new genres and authors exciting.

5. Use Technology to Engage Children
In today’s digital age, technology such as e-readers, audiobooks, and online platforms are invaluable tools to make reading accessible and appealing to all students. Technology offers diverse ways to engage with literature, catering to different learning styles and preferences, and ensuring that reading is a joyous experience for every child.

6. Build an Online Reading Community
Creating a sense of community around reading can significantly enhance students’ enjoyment and engagement. Reading Cloud offers an online platform where students can share reviews, discuss their favourite books, and find recommendations. This not only fosters a love for reading but also builds connections between students through the shared experience of literary.

7. Create Personalised Reading Lists
With tailored reading lists to match students’ interests and learning needs, schools can ensure every child finds books that resonate with them. By personalising recommendations, educators can spark curiosity and encourage students to explore topics and stories that align with their passions and learning goals.

8. Accessibility for Dyslexic Readers
Ensuring that reading is accessible to everyone, including students who struggle with traditional texts, is crucial. Offering audiobooks and text readers can open up the world of literature to dyslexic readers, allowing them to experience the joy and benefits of reading alongside their peers.

To dive deeper into the strategies shared by our panel of experts at Bett 2024, watch the full video panel recording here. Find fresh ideas to champion literacy in your school and make reading an irresistible adventure for your students.