For 60 - 70% of all school children, learning to read is a formidable challenge and that for approximately 20 - 30% of them, learning to read will be the most difficult task that they will need to master throughout their schooling. When I realised my daughter was struggling, I was told to "not worry, she will get there." But she didn't get there and three years later I faced my own formidable challenge.
If students achieve in the bottom three bands of their Year 9 Naplan testing, they will then be required to sit up to 6 Online Literacy and Numeracy Assessments (OLNA) in order to obtain their Year 12 Graduation (WACE). If this is not obtained and young people then wish to take up a TAFE course or apprenticeship, they will be determined to have only achieved a Year 9 level of education. Parents are also being told "not to worry".
In Australia, approximately half of all students do not have what is termed 'functional literacy' levels in Year 9. They cannot read or write everyday documents needed when shopping, travelling, banking, or in the workplace.
Not being taught to read using what we know from scientific evidence has consequences. Parents pick up those consequences - educational, vocational and mental health. What do you know about how children should be taught to read? What do you know about the recent changes to Year 9 Naplan testing? What can you do to support your child at home?
What do you need to know in order to communicate with their school? And how might you decide if your child needs a deeper look?
If you would like to know more about what is required for children to learn to read and how you, as a parent, can help, I will be holding an informal gathering in my home near Fremantle. If you would like further details please contact me on 0417 949 179.
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