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Make use of reading role models

With primary schools, and many homes, being ‘female’ dominated environments some boys fail to identify reading as a male activity. Most studies into raising boys’ achievement place a high value on positive male role models for boys.

What you can do:

Photo by MTJ Media

Be a positive role model yourself – be a reader! Find time to read aloud to children – of all ages – as often as possible. Put reading at the heart of your timetable Try to broaden your knowledge of children’s literature and popular culture so that you are better able to advise your pupils on ‘good stuff to read’ If possible, use a senior or high-profile member of staff as a reading mentor – this will make children feel important and that their problems are being taken seriously Encourage parents to be good reading role models Make use of the wider community – invite in local people to show how reading helps them day to day. Boys respond well to seeing people in ‘real jobs’, particularly if the job reflects their interests. It helps them see that reading has a purpose Invite in authors to talk about what it is to be a reader and a writer Make use of peer mentoring – the opportunity to read with another child, particularly one who has overcome similar obstacles, is an immensely effective strategy for children who struggle with reading

An example of a practical activity

Visiting role models

Before inviting any visitor in to your class, you need to be clear about what you want from them and what you hope the children will get out of the visit. It’s best to invite someone in to talk about a topic you are studying as this will make the visit relevant – and if they have a real ‘wow’ factor job or hobby it will really inspire children’s interest, particularly the boys. If you’re studying mountains, for example, invite in a rock climber or someone from mountain rescue.

Talk to the visitor and find out what they feel comfortable and confident doing. Make sure they are clearly briefed about what to say, the age of the children and appropriate vocabulary to use, particularly if their role is quite technical. Encourage the visitor to make use of books and reading and to show how these are relevant to what they do. Prior to the visit, make sure you’ve agreed exactly what the visitor will do and what they will bring or need – and of course ensure you carry out the necessary security checks and any risk assessment.

If you would like more information about the reasons for some boys’ underachievement in literacy and how we can overcome this we suggest you read the Project X Handbook: Get the Boys Reading and Writing: The Essential Guide to Raising Boys’ Achievement.