Here at Divine Word N.S. we have a variety of English programmes in place to encourage reading, writing and oral language from Junior Infants to Sixth Class. As educators we plan for and follow the newly revised Primary Language Curriculum. We have a very well stocked library including both fiction and non-fiction titles, with indoor and outdoor seating space where the children can gather and read together and borrow and browse regularly. Additionally, each classroom has a small library space – all of which have been restocked recently. The children are encouraged to read independently daily. Many teachers use D.E.A.R. time (drop everything and read) while lots of classes pair up for ‘Buddy Reading’ with older children reading to younger ones and enjoying literature together. We are very fortunate in Divine Word to have a number of local libraries nearby. Classes visit Ballyroan library regularly to attend events and borrow books.
A Guided Reading programme is in place in the Junior end of the school and the children take a levelled reader home daily to practice reading at home. In the Senior end of the school we use the Accelerated Reading programme. We have a dedicated Accelerated Reading library located in The William’s Wing. Here children from 5th and 6th class can browse and borrow books chosen specifically with their interests and reading levels in mind. This programme has been a huge success in the school and the children receive prizes and awards for their successes in reading throughout the year.
The children regularly engage in creative writing competitions. Most recently the Student Council organized a ‘Spooky Halloween’ writing competition which was greatly received. The Divine Word Daily is school newspaper (insert link) organized by the Student Council. Children from all classes are encouraged to contribute to the content. Our annual Spelling Bee sees children from 5th and 6th class compete against each other to go through to the National Spelling Bee. It is always great fun.
Junior and Senior Infant classes engage in the Aistear programme which is hugely important for vocabulary development at this age. Special Education intervention takes place at all levels in the school to assist and support children experiencing difficulty with reading, writing and oral language. In the past at Divine Word we have hosted very successful World Book Day events including dressing-up days, parades, book-sharing sessions and author visits. This year we are pleased to announce the return of the Usborne Book Fair. Keep an eye on the website for more information in the New Year.