Children's Reading Choices discusses the reading habits of children aged between 10 and 14. The book reports the findings of the Children's Reading Choices project - conducted by the authors from the University of Nottingham and the largest national survey of children's reading choices since the 1970s. The book includes reports and discussion on: * girls' and boys' reading preferences and the differences between their reading habits * the place of series books, teenage magazines and comics in children's reading * the most popular authors and titles at different ages * purchasing habits and library use.

This book is based on the belief that deep subject knowledge of language and literature provides a foundation for effective teaching and learning. It provides a comprehensive guide to the range of genres and characteristic features of English language fiction written for children. It will help readers to: o develop their understanding of literature within social, cultural and political reading practices o extend their knowledge of language features and conventions of different genres o develop skills in analytical and critical reading. The scope of the first edition has been expanded from solely fiction to cover a range of contemporary literature, including poetry, plays and picture books. The case study material, investigative activities and practical exercises promote an active approach to learning. The second edition focuses on a range of fiction relevant to the National Curriculum for England and the National Literacy Strategy. It provides examples from a range of world literature written in English. Examples from work in translation are also included. It also addresses the requirements of the primary curriculum for ITT English. This book is essential reading for student teachers on PGCE, and undergraduate teacher education courses, and for teachers undertaking CPD in English, literacy or children's literature. It provides useful support material for language coordinators, SCITT coordinators and literacy consultants.

The astonishing success of J.K. Rowling and other contemporary children's authors has demonstrated how passionately children can commit to the books they love. But this kind of devotion is not new. This timely volume takes up the challenge of assessing the complex interplay of forces that have created the popularity of children's books both today and in the past. The essays collected here ask about the meanings and values that have been ascribed to the term 'popular'. They consider whether popularity can be imposed, or if it must always emerge from children's preferences. And they investigate how the Harry Potter phenomenon fits into a repeated cycle of success and decline within the publishing industry. Whether examining eighteenth-century chapbooks, fairy tales, science schoolbooks, Victorian adventures, waif novels or school stories, these essays show how historical and publishing contexts are vital in determining which books will succeed and which will fail, which bestsellers will endure and which will fade quickly into obscurity. As they considering the fiction of Angela Brazil, Enid Blyton, Roald Dahl and J.K. Rowling, the contributors carefully analyse how authorial talent and cultural contexts combine, in often unpredictable ways, to generate - and sometimes even sustain - literary success.

No detailed description available for "Growing and Knowing: A Selection Guide for Children's Literature".

Parental involvement in children's education is a subject of growing interest and recent legislation in both the UK and USA has given formal recognition of parents’ rights. Learning to read is an obvious area where parents can do a great deal to help, and some schools have had programmes for parental involvement in reading for some time. However recent research has shown the considerable benefit in having carefully structured systems for parental involvement. This book presents a review of past and current good practice in this field. Details of a wide range of schemes developed in local areas are given in a series of short contributed papers, which are grouped into sub sections of Part 2 according to the type of project. Part 3 is essentially a manual of materials and methods. The emphasis throughout the book is on service delivery to all children although there is of course considerable discussion of remedial reading and children with special needs The book should appeal to a wide audience in education, educational administration and educational psychology.

This practical and focused book draws on the author’s own research project in order to identify good practice in promoting reading for enjoyment. It presents specific activities which teachers can use to develop their own whole school and classroom practice, enabling them to put the fun back into reading. Each chapter features case-study material and provides examples of planning from schools that have successfully created thriving reading cultures through schemes such as reading assemblies, book clubs, library loyalty cards, school book evenings and quizzes. There is also an extensive, annotated list of print and internet-based resources. Topics covered include: Becoming a reading for pleasure school Promoting a love of reading in the early years Developing reading enjoyment in the later primary years Getting boys reading Promoting Reading for Pleasure in the Primary School is written for all those involved in education who would like to see as many children as possible develop a love of reading. It will be particularly relevant for pre-service and in-service K-8 teachers, teaching assistants, advisers and consultants, and teacher educators and researchers.

Over the past few decades there have been intense debates in education surrounding children’s literacy achievement and ways to promote reading, particularly that of boys. The Harry Potter book series has been received enthusiastically by very many children, boys and girls alike, but has also been constructed in popular and media discourses as a children’s, particularly a boys’, literacy saviour. Children’s Literacy Practices and Preferences: Harry Potter and Beyond provides empirical evidence of young people’s reported literacy practices and views on reading, and of how they see how the Harry Potter series as having impacted their own literacy. The volume explores and debunks some of the myths surrounding Harry Potter and literacy, and contextualizes these within children’s wider reading.

This newly updated, user friendly Primary English Encyclopedia addresses all aspects of the primary English curriculum and is an invaluable reference for all training and practising teachers. Now in its fifth edition, entries have been revised to take account of new research and thinking. The approach is supportive of the reflective practitioner in meeting National Curriculum requirements in England and developing sound subject knowledge and good classroom practice. While the book is scholarly, the author writes in a conversational style and includes reproductions of covers of recommended children’s books and examples of children’s writing and drawing to add interest. The encyclopedia includes: over 600 entries , many expanded and entirely new for this edition, including entries on apps, blogging and computing; short definitions of key concepts; input on the initial teaching of reading including the teaching of phonics and the other cue-systems; extended entries on major topics such as speaking and listening, reading, writing, drama, poetry, non-fiction, bilingualism and children’s literature; information on new literacies and new kinds of texts for children; discussion of current issues and input on the history of English teaching in the primary years; extended entries on gender and literacy; important references for each topic, advice on further reading and accounts of recent research findings; and a Who’s Who of Primary English and lists of essential texts, updated for this new edition. This encyclopedia will be ideal for student teachers on BA and PGCE courses preparing for work in primary schools and primary school teachers. Anyone concerned with bringing about the informed and imaginative teaching of primary school English will find this book helpful and interesting.

"Raising children's interest in reading" is a comprehensive guidebook designed to empower parents and educators with practical strategies to cultivate a lifelong love for reading in children. Drawing on research-backed methods and real-life experiences, this book offers a wealth of insights, techniques, and resources to enhance early literacy development and foster a deep connection with books. The book begins by emphasizing the importance of reading in a child's life and highlighting the concerning decline in reading interest among children. It explores the various factors that influence children's reading habits, such as age and developmental stages, personal interests and hobbies, social and cultural influences, and learning difficulties. By understanding these factors, parents and educators can tailor their approach to match each child's unique needs. Recognizing the crucial role of parents and educators, the book offers guidance on creating comfortable reading spaces, establishing a reading culture at home and in the classroom, and building a diverse and engaging book collection. It highlights the significance of age-appropriate books and encourages the selection of literature that reflects children's interests and experiences. The importance of embracing diversity and inclusivity in literature is also explored, promoting empathy and understanding among young readers. Addressing challenges such as learning difficulties and limited access to books, the book provides practical solutions and resources to overcome these barriers and ensure that all children have equal opportunities to develop a love for reading. Throughout the book, the significance of tracking progress, offering recognition and praise, and setting reading goals and incentives is highlighted. It emphasizes the role of positive role models and mentors in inspiring children to become avid readers and learners. Furthermore, it explores ways to encourage reading beyond the classroom, involving the wider community and promoting a love for learning and curiosity. By building a strong foundation in reading, children develop essential skills and a lifelong passion for learning. "Raising children's interest in reading" serves as an invaluable resource, empowering parents and educators to create an enriching reading environment and inspire children to embark on a lifelong journey of exploration and imagination through books.

Now in an updated third edition, this best-selling textbook introduces primary teachers to the key issues in how to teach reading. The authors celebrate reading as an important, exhilarating part of the curriculum with the potential to transform lives, whilst also giving a balanced handling of contentious issues. Strongly rooted in classroom practice, the book provides comprehensive coverage of differing reading practices and resources. Key features include: managing specialized reading difficulties, such as dyslexia EAL and gender issues in reading use of ICT within reading a detailed inspection of the phonics debate. This book is essential reading for both trainee teachers and qualified teachers interested in continuing their professional development.