Developing a School-Based Reading Program for Lower-Grade Primary Learners: The Case of a Primary School in Hong Kong

Abstract

Reading instruction in English language lessons in Hong Kong primary schools was long dominated by the use of textbooks designed to prepare learners for high-stakes assessments. However, recent educational reforms have placed a new prominence on the teaching of reading with English language teachers advised to allocate 40% of lessons to reading and to use real books. Emphasis is now placed on developing learners’ reading skills and an enjoyment of reading. To achieve this, primary schools have joined government-developed literacy programs or developed their own school-based programs. However, these programs have yet to receive much attention from researchers. This chapter provides an introduction to lower-grade reading programs in Hong Kong, followed by the case of one school’s development and implementation of a school-based reading program.