Bierton School
Bierton School used Longman Digitexts to transform the teaching of reading in their Key Stage 2 literacy lessons. Miss Williams tells why the teachers and pupils at her school love using Digitexts:
Children love using Digitexts
"When the children were first introduced to Digitexts on the Interactive Whiteboard, they were enthralled. They love the way the images move and enjoy reading around the screen to find links to further information. Audio helps children understand the 'mood' of the writing. The children also enjoy deciding what part of the story to read next. We had lots of lively discussions about which path to take and why!"
Ideal for use with the whole class
"Digitexts engage all the pupils in the class, even the children who would normally be reluctant to take part in Shared or Guided Reading. Lower-attaining readers are able to take their cues from what is happening on the screen and also have a special access version. Higher-attaining readers notice the little details of what is happening in the background and make links with what happened earlier in the story."
What progress have you seen in children using Digitexts?
"The level of understanding children demonstrate is impressive as they fit together all the pieces of information. The Digipad is a handy feature that allows them to record their thoughts and the bookmark tool encourages them to return to the text when they are justifying their views. Digitexts are a valuable resource as a step into writing in different genres as children can explore the layout of each chapter on the screen and pick apart the language features and techniques."
Amazingly easy to use
"Digitexts are amazingly easy to use in the classroom. They required very little preparation and the accompanying Teacher's Book has brilliant ideas and lesson plans. Speaking and listening activities enhance the children's understanding of the text. The children had no problems learning how to navigate their way through the text and use the on-screen Digipad and other tools."
Are they good value for money?
"Having seen the enthusiasm the children had for reading and writing whilst using the resources, it was definitely good value. This year I will definitely be using Digitexts within Shared, Guided and Independent sessions to widen children's reading experiences."