Groups to help emergent readers build reading confidence and enjoyment
Many prisoners feel they struggle with reading and would like to get better at it. Prisons provide literacy classes and there are good one-to-one mentoring schemes like the Shannon Trust.
Becoming a reader is also about developing confidence and enjoyment. This is where a reading group can really help by offering a relaxed space for supported group reading and enjoyable book talk.
Reading the Way groups are voluntary, shared reading sessions with an emphasis as much on discussion as reading. Participants are invited to read aloud but they are also welcome just to listen and join in the conversation.
Most RtW groups read a wide variety of short texts: short stories, poems, song lyrics, letters, social media threads, jokes and much more. Material is chosen for interest rather than a specified reading level and it’s fine if the facilitator does most of the reading in the session, particularly when groups are just getting started. It also really helps if participants can have some choice in what they read.
‘It makes me feel like someone who reads.’
The best way to set up a Reading the Way group is for Education depts, libraries and Shannon Trust to work together to identify and recruit target participants and to publicise the groups across the prison. There also needs to be a designated facilitator to run the group.
PRG supports Reading the Way groups with mentoring sessions for interested facilitators and suggested reading resources. There is also a welcome package that includes notebooks and pens, bookmarks, reading glasses and sample material. And we provide certificates and a selection of Quick Read books for completers to choose from at the end.
Reading the Way Community
If you would like to find out more and get access to resources and training opportunities, complete the short form below and we’ll send you a login to the community page.