Students from Our Lady Queen Of Peace School, Greystanes, were served up a book tasting experience in which they were asked to sample a variety of genres and create a menu of preferred stories.
The table setting, which included placemats with images of plates and cutlery, added to the fun of the “tasting” experience.
Teacher Kym Romanous said the goal was to expose the youngsters to a broad range of genres and also focus on the strategy of skimming and scanning a text.
“It was great to see the students so engrossed in books and excited about what they might read in the future,” she said.
Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta Executive Director Greg Whitby said teachers engender a great love of books by sharing their own love of reading, and by introducing them to new authors, different genres and guiding them to material that will capture their attention.
“The work of all schools is to continually seize upon opportunities that promote the power of reading and books,” he said.
“I have always encouraged schools to allow students to chose their own books, where possible, as a way of nurturing reading especially among boys.”
Mr Whitby said one of the best head starts parents can give to their children is to read to them daily. Take an interest in what they like and find whatever is available – books, magazines, cartoons, etc.
“Point out words and ask questions. And if your child is slow to reading, talk to his/her teachers. Find out what is being read in the classroom, how often they visit the library and ensure teachers know what interests your child so they can help to find suitable books,” he said.
View and download photos from this event
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au
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