Summer Literacy Motivation
Keep skills sharp over break!
Proven Techniques to Use
Research studies have shown that by using several different motivational techniques with your student over the summer, literacy skills can be maintained or increased (Wright & Mahiri, 2012). * Involve your student in vacation planning, meal planning, a large purchase for the home, or in planning a garage sale. When young people feel they have some say in the matter, they will be more motivated to get involved!
Motivational Strategies
Where do I start?
1. Have your student research their idea for planning an activity. A trip to the local library could result in a number of resources for your student to use in planning stages. It would be wise to have a budget in mind before sending them off to plan!
2. Use your student's assets to ensure success. If your student's strengths include math skills, the budget would be a great area to give them more control over. If your student is more social, maybe they could interview a few travel agents about trip ideas and get some recommendations.
3. Scaffold your support to ensure your student has a clear idea of where to start, but begin removing those scaffolds as they get more independent in the task. You don't want to take over something that is essentially thier project.
4. Include team collaboration where the family gets together and your student has to present findings to the "team". Focus on the importance of effective and respectful communication. How to handle questions and oppositions, how to compromise with other team members and how to make the activity something the whole team will enjoy.
What's the Pay-Off??
A. You are increasing your student's abilty to research, self plan and prepare for an activity.
B. You are moving from a role of directive parent to one who gradually gives more independence and decision making power to your student.
C. You are increasing positive communication skills within your student by requiring them to present their findings and convince the team (family).
D. You are maintaining or increasing literacy skills by engaging your student in the planning, research and presentation of an activity in which they are major stakeholders.
E. You are helping your student increase their skill levels and confidence with literacy.