Understanding that learning is a continuous journey cannot be gainsaid. And we should also value the importance of breaks for our students to rest, refresh and equally explore learning beyond the classroom walls.
However, short-term school breaks, as provided for in the school curriculum and learning cycle, such as those in winter and spring, can sometimes disrupt learning momentum. In a nutshell, the good news is that we can also implement effective strategies to accelerate learning during such short-term school breaks, commonly referred to as mid-term short breaks, and keep students on track during these times.
The following are some of the tips on how teachers can facilitate families to optimise their child’s learning during short-term school breaks:-
Use of Meaningful Technology Tools
With a wide range of digital platforms and resources at their fingertips, teachers can promote the use of meaningful technology-backed tools by creating engaging, interactive, and accessible content for students to explore while they are away from the classroom and school environment.
Utilise Online Learning Platforms
Teachers and school administrations can utilise platforms like Google Classroom, Canvas, or Seesaw to provide students with access to practice or review materials, at-home learning activities, and enrichment opportunities.
And indeed, by providing manageable, self-paced tasks, students can maintain their skills and keep their learning going in a fun and engaging way.
Recommend Educational Apps and Games
Teachers, as resource persons and experts in education matters and curriculum delivery, can often recommend educational apps and games that reinforce core subjects, making learning fun and interactive for students.
Provide Opportunities for Virtual Field Trips
Teachers and school administration, especially those in charge of curriculum implementation and delivery, should think of offering links to virtual field trips, such as those through Discovery Education. These can be related to current classroom units of study, broader grade-level concepts, or topics of student interest, providing students with an enriching experience that feels more like an adventure than learning.
Encourage Reading for Pleasure and Growth
Reading is one of the most effective and proven ways to maintain and accelerate learning during breaks. Reading for pleasure not only improves literacy skills but also enhances vocabulary, comprehension, and overall reading development.
Create a Reading Challenge
Teachers should consider creating a reading challenge tailored to the length of the break. This means they should strive to encourage students to set goals, such as reading a certain number of books or exploring new genres.
READ ALSO:
Providing a list of recommended curriculum books can, to a greater extent, help guide the students’ choices and encourage them to visit their local communal and public library facilities.
Encourage Parental Involvement
School administrations should encourage parents to engage in reading activities with their children. In practical terms, sharing stories, reading aloud, and engaging in literacy-based activities can promote a shared interest in reading while reinforcing literacy skills.
It is argued by education experts and scholars alike that when parents discuss the books their children read with them and ask questions about the plot, characters, themes, or big ideas, it helps children build deeper reading comprehension skills as well as engage in meaningful conversation.
Provide Choice
Teachers and curriculum implementation school heads of departments should encourage children to choose books that interest them. The main purpose of doing this is to foster a love for reading by allowing them to explore topics and genres they enjoy.
For younger children, parents can read aloud with them, turning it into a shared activity that builds connection and discussion. For older students, setting aside dedicated reading time each day can help establish a routine.
By Ben Oroko
The Writer is a Communications Practitioner and Correspondent based in Kisii
benoroko2000@yahoo.com
