This week in primary schools, assemblies and classroom discussions are sparking conversations about the latest news stories and the role of reading in our lives. Let's explore key highlights, recent research, and some thoughtful reflections from pupils and teachers alike. Print Books vs. E-Readers: What Does the Research Say? Researchers at the University of Valencia, Spain, have found that reading printed materials can boost reading skills six to eight times more than reading digitally on devices like e-readers or tablets. Published in the Review of Educational Research, the study highlights a noteworthy difference in comprehension: while digital reading is linked to lower understanding for primary school pupils, the effect turns positive for secondary school-aged students. What Is an E-Reader? An e-reader is an electronic device used to read books, magazines, and other texts in a digital format. These devices are capable of storing hundreds or thousands of titles and often come with features such as waterproofing and built-in search capabilities. Tablets and smartphones can also serve as e-readers through dedicated apps. How Do Children Respond to Different Reading Formats? The Valencia study observed that children are more likely to be distracted while using e-readers. Notifications, messages, and various applications can interrupt their focus, which may result in less careful reading compared to traditional print books. What Do People Prefer: Books or E-Readers? Opinions vary widely. Some value the tactile sensation and the joy of turning physical pages, sharing books with friends, and being able to read anytime—regardless of electricity or internet access. Others appreciate the convenience and environmental benefits of e-readers, including carrying an entire library in one lightweight device and the ability to search through texts quickly. For some, e-readers mean cheaper book prices and less paper waste. Types of Reading Materials: What Can We Read? Beyond books, people engage with a range of reading materials: newspapers, magazines, instructions, recipes, letters, cereal boxes, menus, classrooms posters, leaflets, and more. Pupils are encouraged to think about their preferences, the reasons for reading different types of materials, and to consider ordering them from favourite to least favourite. Classroom Discussions: Key Questions and Activities Assemblies and discussions encourage students to reflect on questions such as: Do you enjoy reading? What are your favourite books or authors? Have you used an e-reader? Which do you prefer, printed books or digital formats, and why? What are the advantages and disadvantages of books versus e-readers? Do you think one day e-readers will replace books entirely? How does your environment affect your reading preferences? Have you tried listening to audiobooks? Would you like to? Vocabulary to Explore Audiobook: A recorded reading of a book that you can listen to. Boost: To help or encourage improvement—in this context, reading print can boost skills more than digital. Device: A machine like a phone or tablet used to read or connect online. Distracted: Losing focus, often cited as a challenge when reading on e-readers. Traditional: Existing for a long time without change, like printed books. Book and Reading Activities Organise book-themed activities such as book clubs, book displays, or 'extreme reading' in unusual places. Write letters to libraries or local bookshops. Create your own book characters and describe them in words or pictures. Try reading a variety of materials—books, comics, instructions, menus, or posters—and reflect on your experiences. Explore vocabulary art, using ambitious words for creative projects. Reflecting on Individual Liberty, Beliefs, and Rights Everyone has the right to choose how, when, and what they read. Access to information through various sources—books, newspapers, digital devices, and the internet—is a key part of individual liberty and belief, with the right to not be treated unfairly based on beliefs or preferences. Other Inspiring News Stories A Letter That Made a Difference Grace, a 10-year-old from Edinburgh, wrote a letter to a crisp company requesting her favourite seasonal flavour—haggis and black pepper—be available year-round. The company responded by not only making the crisps available all year but also sending Grace a taxi full of crisps and inviting her for a factory tour. This heartwarming story highlights the power of communication and initiative. Breaking Records in Art Chancellor Ahaghotu, a Nigerian art student studying in the USA, broke the world record for the longest painting marathon with an incredible 100 hours of continuous painting. Chancellor produced 106 pieces, reflecting different moods, and expressed excitement about the boost this achievement gives his artistic career. British Sign Language Recognised as a GCSE From September 2025, students in England will be able to study British Sign Language (BSL) as a GCSE subject. This comes after years of advocacy, with curriculum development involving both deaf and hearing communities. BSL is celebrated as a beautiful, visual language, rich in culture and history. Reflections on Reading Books and stories offer gateways to real and imagined worlds. Our reading choices—whether traditional books, e-books, or audiobooks—are unique to each individual. Embracing reading in all its forms can boost learning, increase enjoyment, and open new possibilities for the future. Explore the latest Picture News resources here: https://picture-news.co.uk/free-sample Join our latest discussion here: https://picture-news.co.uk/discuss Explore our recent events and training here: https://picture-news.co.uk/training
