BLOG POST 3 (Module 2 Reading Week): We've got to get CREATIVE!

 


Do I think that reading is necessary? Yes. 

Do I think that reading is important? Yes. 

Do I think that reading opens and unlocks doors? Yes. 

Do I think that reading is boring sometimes? Yes - BUT...it doesn't have to be!


After reflecting material on creativity by Seeling (2012) and Mueller et. al (2012), I came up with the following working definition of the term: 

  • Creativity is the generation of new, fresh, and unique ideas by (consciously or subconsciously) tapping into one’s imagination, curiosity, culture, knowledge and environment. 
When I think of the students who are disinterested and unmotivated to read, I recognise that part of that may be a result of the way that I introduce and use reading material within my classes. In a world that is technology-driven and evolving, it becomes a very hard sell to try and convince a student that reading words on several pages can be just as enjoyable, stimulating and fun as it is for them to make TikToks, play video games and watch YouTubers. Part of the reason that it is a 'hard sell' may be directly hinged on the manner with which we read and teach reading - and this is something that I, as an educator, can change. I need to get creative with my approach to promoting independent reading...

So, I did some digging and came across some material on strategies from promoting independent reading that are different (and a bit more creative) that what may be used in traditional classroom settings.  The International Literacy Association suggests some of these strategies for boosting student interest and motivation to read independently:

Host a book club. Book clubs are a great way to cultivate a community of readers that fosters connectivity through shared reading and discussion. Let the club members choose the books collectively—this encourages students to step outside their comfort zone and explore new genres.

Host a young author read-aloud. Invite students to read an original story aloud to their peers, educators, and parents. This gives students a platform to showcase their work while helping to build confidence.

Reenact favorite books. Ask students to create a movie version of their favorite book. This is an opportunity for them to display how they envisioned the characters and events. Allow room for interpretation—let students decide a new ending or a twist in the plot they would’ve liked to see.

Mystery check-outs. Wrap books in wrapping paper and encourage students to blindly choose a “mystery book.” This is a fun way to help students venture out of their comfort zone with a new author, genre, or series

Host a reading-related event. Host a book fair to promote reading as a passion, not an assignment. Invite parents to visit, encouraging at-home reading as well. 

                                                                                                                    (Stinchcomb, 2017) 


Mueller, J.S., Melwai, S., & Goncalo, J.A. (2012). The bias against creativity: Why people desire but reject creative ideas. Psychological Science, 23(1), 13–17. doi: 10.1177/0956797611421018

Seeling, T. (2012, August 01). A crash course in creativity: Tina Seelig at TEDxStanford. Retrieved October 08, 2021, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gyM6rx69iqg

Stinchcomb, S. (2017, November 30). Ila's Blog. Retrieved October 17, 2021, from https://www.literacyworldwide.org/blog/literacy-now/2017/11/30/10-ways-to-promote-independent-reading

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