That's a RAP! Using Reading Adventure Packs to improve students' involvement in and attitude to reading at home

Educational value

• This is a valuable resource for teachers and schools seeking to put in place a school-home literacy partnership. Research has shown that reading partnerships involving family members of the type described in the resource have real value in children's development of positive attitudes towards reading and in sustaining their involvement in reading beyond the early years of schooling. The RAPs were adapted and designed by Australian teacher Margaret Gill and were found to successfully stimulate shared reading experiences at home.
• The Lessons learned section of the resource provides useful information in planning a shared home reading program. For example, girls tended to initiate the program, mothers were the main family members involved and time was an important factor in completing the reading and associated activities. Data from parents and students indicates the importance of texts and activities, taking account of how children's reading levels mature in years 1 and 2.

Year level

F; 1; 2; 3

Topics Reading Learning motivation Parent teacher relationship