Structures of literacy work

Primary schools implement a daily reading moment. Regular reading supports the development of literacy skills and strengthens reading routine, fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. Regularly repeated, guided reading time helps reading become an established part of the school day.

Pupils are regularly given reading homework, the aim of which is to support the development of literacy skills outside the school day and to reinforce the continuity of reading. Reading homework strengthens and supports independent reading and the formation of reading routines.

Teachers and other adults act as reading role models. They make reading visible through their own actions and support pupils’ reading motivation and the development of a positive reader identity. Regular reading moments within families play an important role in developing reading routines and supporting the school’s literacy work.

Reading is also made visible in learning environments and in the school’s communal activities. Literacy is supported in all subjects as part of daily instruction. Shared reading moments, reading aloud, and discussing literature are part of the school’s operating culture. Learning environments are developed to inspire reading, for example, through classroom libraries and current reading materials. Reading is also encouraged through various campaigns, challenges, and theme days. These support the visibility of reading within the school community and strengthen a communal operating culture.

Library collaboration is an essential part of literacy work in Hämeenlinna’s comprehensive schools. Pupils become familiar with library services, receive guidance on material selection, and develop their information retrieval skills in cooperation with the library. The library’s reading diplomas support purposeful and diverse reading. They guide pupils to explore different text types and strengthen their reading hobby.