My daughter is in Primary Six and has no interest in reading for pleasure. She has great difficulty when given an assignment to read a book and then write a report. What can I do to help?
Education consultant Florence Robertson replies:
Try to find out from your daughter why she doesn't like to read. You may discover that she finds the books that are assigned too difficult. It could also be that she is not interested in the particular topics.
If she says to you that the books are too difficult, discuss this situation with her teacher. Ask the teacher to help determine the appropriate reading level. An easy way for you to find out if a book is too difficult is to have her read a page to you. If she makes five mistakes or more in understanding or pronouncing the words, then the book is too difficult. Explain to the teacher what you have discovered so a more suitable book can be provided.
If the books are not difficult to read but instead are on subjects that she doesn't like, ask the teacher if the students are permitted to select their own books. This may not be allowed as the teacher may want all students to read the same book.
If choice is permitted, ask your daughter what subjects she prefers. Discuss a wide range of topics with her. Invite her to suggest themes or topics she likes and show her how to peruse a book to determine the theme and the reading level. Show her that she can use the table of contents to find out something about a book. The titles listed for each chapter give the reader an indication of the content. By reviewing them, your daughter can decide whether the book is of interest to her and she will be able to make a more informed choice. If possible, go to the library with her to help her to select a book of her choice.