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The Reads and the Read-Nots
22 Aug 2011
New National Literacy Trust research* of 18,141 children reveals a polarised nation of young readers with one in six reporting that they don’t read a single book in a month, while one in 10 say they read more than 10 books in a month.
This divide between the “reads” and the “read-nots” is concerning because the research shows reading frequency has a direct link to attainment, as eight in 10 children who read over 10 books a month are above average readers compared with just three in 10 of those who rarely read.
Fresh approaches are urgently needed to encourage young people to read more. However, the number of children who never read a book suggests the government has a huge challenge on its hands if Michael Gove’s “50 books a year” initiative is to reach every child.
The research also found that:
- 77% of children who read for longer than an hour at a time are above average readers, while just 4% who read for over an hour are below the level expected of them.
- Only 30% of children who read for up to 10 minutes at a time are above average readers, with 20% below the reading expected level for their age.
- Text messages are the most popular thing for children to read outside of class with 60% saying they read texts outside of class at least once a month.
- Children who read text messages but not fiction books are twice as likely to be below average readers compared to those who also read fiction (10% versus 5%).
National Literacy Trust Director, Jonathan Douglas, says:
“Our new research shows that one in six children don’t read a book in a month, and we are worried that they will grow up to be the one in six adults who struggle with literacy to the extent that they read to the level expected of an eleven-year-old, or below. Getting these children reading and helping them to love reading is the way to turn their lives around and give them new opportunities and aspirations. This is the work of the National Literacy Trust.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure that all children develop a love of reading and the skills they need for success throughout life. Members of the public can support our work by making a donation. Just £7 a month could pay for a child to attend an inspirational reading event and choose a book to keep.”
The National Literacy Trust is a charity that works in disadvantaged communities across the UK to encourage children to read for pleasure, giving many the opportunity to choose books of their own to keep for the first time. It is calling on members of the public to support their work by making a donation.
To find out more and support the work of the National Literacy Trust please visit www.literacytrust.org.uk/support
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
* Clark, Christina, Setting the Baseline: Reading Report, London: National Literacy Trust, 2011.
18,141 young people aged 8 to 17 from across the UK took part in the research.
The full research report is available here.
For more information about the National Literacy Trust please contact Anna Lindsay, Public Relations Officer via anna.lindsay@literacytrust.org.uk or 020 7820 6256.
About the National Literacy Trust
The National Literacy Trust is an independent charity that transforms lives through literacy. We campaign to improve public understanding of the vital importance of literacy and communication, as well as delivering projects and working in partnership to reach those most in need of support.
To help us transform lives through literacy, you can make a donation or support our work. To find out how visit http://www.literacytrust.org.uk/support
National Literacy Trust is a registered charity no. 1116260, and a company limited by guarantee, no. 5836486. Registered in England and Wales. Registered address: 68 South Lambeth Road, London SW8 1RL. Tel: 020 7587 1842
