Special Reading Initiatives
The Ministry of Education (MOE) places continual emphasis on evaluating and improving the English language curriculum. Important areas of language learning are identified through focus group discussions and surveys from teachers, school leaders, and employers. In addition, the MOE supports various research studies on language learning conducted by the National Institute of Education. Together, these provide information and evidence for new curricular initiatives and for reviewing policies.
As research has shown that a crucial aspect of language learning involves deep and wide reading, the MOE collaborates with strategic partners and supports initiatives to raise awareness and promote reading for pleasure among the young and adults. One key partner is the National Library Board. The MOE supports initiatives by the National Library Board such as Read@School and the National Reading Movement to nurture a vibrant reading community. Read@School promotes reading among students in schools through exciting reading programs like storytelling, games, book talks, and workshops that cater to their reading abilities and interests.28 Read@School also utilizes technology through its interactive online reading portal, discoveReads, which aims to encourage students to connect with one another over their love for books.29 Programs designed for teachers and parents also help adults become reading role models. For example, the National Reading Movement is a five year campaign to nurture a love for reading in adults, encouraging them to “Read More, Read Widely and Read Together.ˮ30