Primary Arts Masterclass: Transforming Literacy through Picture Books

This masterclass will be delivered by an expert advisory teacher from CLPE in partnership with a high profile children’s author/illustrator, and will support participants to enhance their knowledge and understanding of how to choose and use picture books across all Primary Key Stages to increase children’s motivation and attainment as independent readers and writers.

Through a range of interactive activities, we will investigate how well-chosen picture books, specific teaching of how illustration can be read and thoughtfully planned activities can increase children’s comprehension of language and engage children in deeper response in reading. We will also develop an understanding of how picturebooks can be used to develop children’s own use of language as well as a clear understanding of narrative structure; inspiring them to write creatively and independently.

By working alongside a published author, we will be able to reflect on and use a variety of creative, authentic and meaningful approaches to the writing process, which can be used in class with all children to improve independent writing, engagement and attainment.

We will also demonstrate how school leaders can build a spine of picturebook texts which can be included in a rich, progressive Primary English Curriculum, in line with the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Framework and National Curriculum.

What will I take away from this CPD?

All participants in this masterclass will receive a copy of a carefully-selected picturebook text, along with detailed teaching plans for each age phase to allow that text to be taught across a school.

They will also have access to a suite of video resources to support teachers to use the book and develop children’s independent writing back in their own classrooms.

Key areas of focus

• Understanding the importance of picturebooks as a vital part of children’s reading experiences across the primary years;
• How to closely read illustration, developing visual literacy skills;
• Investigating approaches to develop children’s inference, deduction and to be critically reflective about a text and its impact on the reader;
• How to convey meaning in words and illustrations of their own, investigating the impact of drawing as a means of communicating and sharing ideas;
• How to teach children the building blocks of narrative by exploring a wide range of high-quality picturebooks;
• Examples of creative teaching approaches that support children’s engagement with and understanding of narrative
• How to support children in creating, shaping, developing and publishing their own narratives using words and pictures following the authentic process of a practicing writer;
• How to embed creative practices across your school to develop childrens engagement and attainment in reading and writing.

Please note:

Places will be limited to two participants per school.

This is an all day event and refreshments and lunch catering will be provided.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Centre for Literacy in Primary Education - CLPE, 44 Webber Street, London, United Kingdom