ESOL learners in the WEA class at St Swithun’s Community Centre, Eastmoor have taken part this term in a 6 Book Challenge. It began in October when Lynne Holroyd, Library Development Area Supervisor for Wakefield Library visited the class with a box of attractive and enticing books, and a 6 Book Challenge Reading Diary for everyone.
Over the next few weeks, every Thursday, each class member chose a book which appealed in terms of content and level, took it home to read, then returned the following week to talk about the book, and write about it in their 6 Book Challenge Reading Diaries. There was much discussion about the books – some stirred up strong reactions, many were enjoyed for their humour, or their resonance with the lives of the readers themselves.
Some entries from the Reading Diaries illustrate these reactions as well as other benefits: “It helped me to do good reading and spelling. I like reading stories.” “My reading is better. I enjoyed it all.” “I like writing the diary every week. It is very good for spelling.” “I liked ‘Fadumo goes shopping’ best. It was the best story.”
Soon the 6 books (or more!) were read, and Lynne returned to present Certificates and prizes from the Library. It was a very happy celebration, made all the more special with the presence of Centre Manager Christine Bann and Eastmoor Community Project Director Maureen Rishworth, who both added their congratulations to the learners.
Lynne told the class: “When I first came to see you to bring the books I was impressed at how enthusiastic you all were, by all the questions you asked and how interested you were in the library. Completing the Challenge is a fantastic achievement and one that you should be very, very proud of. It will not only have helped you improve your confidence, but it will have improved your skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening.”
Tutor Jean Smethurst is delighted at the success of the Challenge. “The Challenge has opened up many opportunities for speaking about the stories themselves, and about the language in the books. Above all, though, it is great to see the enjoyment every member of the class has experienced. We are looking forward to seeing Lynne again in the New Year when she will bring another selection of books for the learners to borrow. They are committed readers and Library users now.”
For photos of the six book challenge please check out our photos section
