The Reading Corner is designed to create a love of reading and provide a quiet space where students can calm down and enjoy good books. The process involves the pupils in the design and furnishing, which reinforces their ownership and responsibility for the space.
This activity is suitable for pupils aged between 6 - 15 years old.
To encourage reading, improve concentration, develop empathy through stories, relax and calm, foster a sense of community.
Community and belonging through joint planning and management,
simplicity and transparency of space to facilitate concentration.
Planning paper and pens, comfortable cushions, rugs, small sofas, bookshelves, selection of age-appropriate books, decorative objects.
1 month for preparation, then usage depends on the teacher (if teacher feels that would help, he can motivate the use during some classes), pupils (durin breaks).
Discuss with a group of pupils what they would like to have in the reading corner. Think about comfort, lighting and atmosphere. Ask the pupils to sketch ideas and suggest what all should be included.
Based on the plans, choose what you will need. Encourage pupils to contribute ideas on where to find the necessary props, perhaps even in their home circles or through donations.
Together with the pupils, prepare the chosen corner, clean the room and assemble the furniture together. This is a great opportunity to learn about teamwork and responsibility.
The pupils should decorate the corner with soft cushions, rugs and other decorative items they have chosen. Arrange bookshelves and books.
Together with the pupils, establish rules for using the reading corner, such as quietness, taking care of the books and the space, and how to share the space.
Organise a short opening ceremony where pupils can introduce the reading corner to others and invite them to use it.
With adjustments and additions, the reading corner can become a multifunctional space that serves not only reading but also other forms of art and relaxation, such as music, films and perhaps even light forms of theatre art. These adaptations can further enrich the school environment and offer students more opportunities for learning and relaxation.
Music corner:
Add comfortable headphones and a music player or a small sound system where students can relax while listening to music.
Choose relaxing and instrumental tracks or music that promotes concentration.
Create music playlists according to different genres or themes that pupils can choose.
A corner for watching films:
Install a small screen or use a portable projector to show educational and motivational films or documentaries.
Organise themed film days where a discussion on the theme or message is held after the film.
Introduce 'quiet hours' for viewing so as not to disturb other activities in the reading corner.
Space for theatre and storytelling:
Designate a space for small theatre performances or storytelling where students can perform or listen.
Include props and costumes for simple theatre pieces or storytelling. Organise storytelling workshops where students learn how to improve their storytelling skills.
Creative Corner:
Add drawing and writing materials, encourage pupils to draw an illustration or write a short story after reading a book or listening to a story. Provide a space for group projects where pupils can work together to create stories or artwork based on the book they have read.
After the reading and relaxation time, invite participants to take a few deep breaths and tune into how their body and mind feel.
The Reading Corner fosters a nurturing environment that promotes both literacy and emotional well-being. By involving students in its creation and upkeep, the activity encourages a sense of ownership, responsibility, and pride in their shared space. It supports the development of a love for reading by making books more accessible in a calm and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, it provides a peaceful retreat where students can self-regulate, recharge, and develop positive reading habits, ultimately contributing to their cognitive and emotional growth.
Be careful to keep the space tidy and attractive. Add new books regularly to maintain interest.