West Lothian Building Bridges case study
PDF file: West Lothian Building Bridges case studySt. Kentigern's High School and St. Mary's and St. Anthony's Primaries
Raising and sustaining reading attainment, analysing texts and engaging boys in reading for enjoyment were at the heart of this study. This group of schools was determined to make their libraries more accessible, to update texts in order to increase pupil choice and to foster a sense of pupil ownership. A major focus of this plan would be to invite real writers to their schools.
A common methodology was adopted, as was a core text. Children were encouraged to discuss texts with an adult on a weekly basis and to work closely with their peers. Their updated libraries provided them with a wider and more appropriate choice of books. The creation of a website where they could post their book reviews for all to read and comment on was a significant incentive. Several visits to the Edinburgh International Book Festival were also a major contributory factor in the success of this programme.
At the outset a survey of reading habits was undertaken, a sampling of attitudes and opinions noted and an author awareness questionnaire completed. On completion of the project an attitudinal questionnaire was distributed and responses were considered along with noted informal classroom observations.
At the conclusion of this study, teachers commented on a substantial attitudinal change, particularly among boys. There had also been an encouraging parental response. With confidence and self-esteem raised considerably, the authors of this study felt a bridge had been well built. A similar programme is to be developed for P1–P3.