Kerala Schools to Award Grace Marks for Reading Activities from Next Academic Year

The Kerala Education Department is set to launch a pioneering initiative aimed at boosting literacy and cultivating a love for books among students. Starting from the next academic year, school students will be awarded grace marks for reading activities.

The program is designed to make reading an engaging and regular part of the school timetable while rewarding students who actively participate in reading-promoting activities.

Why This Initiative Matters

Kerala has long been recognized for its high literacy rate, but education experts believe that reading habits among students are slowly declining due to the growing influence of digital media and short-form content. By giving grace marks for reading, the government hopes to reignite students’ interest in books, newspapers, and other print media.

Reading not only enhances vocabulary and comprehension but also develops critical thinking, empathy, and creativity—skills essential for both academic and personal growth.

Weekly Reading Periods for All Classes

The new scheme introduces a dedicated reading period once a week in all schools across the state:

Classes 1 to 4: Age-appropriate storybooks and picture books will be used to make reading enjoyable and interactive. Teachers will encourage students to narrate stories, discuss characters, and share their favorite parts of the book.

Classes 5 to 12: Newspaper reading will be introduced to improve general knowledge, awareness of current events, and analytical skills. Follow-up activities such as debates, discussions, and writing exercises will reinforce learning.

Teacher Training and Support Materials

For successful execution, teachers will undergo specialized training in facilitating reading sessions. The department will also release handbooks containing guidelines, activity suggestions, and reading lists suitable for different age groups.

This ensures that every school follows a consistent approach while giving room for creative teaching methods.

Integration with School Kalolsavam

In addition to classroom reading, the Education Department is considering introducing a reading-related competition in the Kerala School Kalolsavam, the largest cultural festival for students in Asia. This could include storytelling, book review contests, or reading marathons, making reading both fun and competitive.

Official Statement

Education Minister V. Sivankutty announced the initiative via his official Facebook page, stating that the decision aligns with the state’s broader goal of enhancing the quality of education and fostering lifelong learning habits. The minister also hinted that this reading promotion strategy could evolve over time to include more innovative elements.

Expected Benefits

• Improved Literacy Skills: Better vocabulary, comprehension, and writing ability.
• Stronger Academic Performance: Reading helps in all subjects, not just language studies.
• Increased General Awareness: Newspaper reading connects students with real-world issues.
• Boosted Creativity: Exposure to different genres inspires imagination.

With this move, Kerala is once again setting an example for the rest of India, proving that academic excellence is not just about exams but also about nurturing habits that last a lifetime.

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