The Benefits of English Literature In Schools*

*This is a collaborative post*

 

The study of English Literature allows children to develop a variety of important skills while giving them a chance to explore new ideas and broaden their perspective on life. It’s a key part of their education, which is why it’s a compulsory part of the national curriculum up until GCSE level. Here a sixth form in Marylebone explores some of the benefits children get from studying English Literature. 

 

Vocabulary and writing skills

 

Studying a variety of texts, and writing forms of literature themselves, extends children’s vocabulary range and introduces them to different modes of expression. It also helps with their spelling, punctuation and grammar, and handwriting skills. They get the chance to explore new words and phrases and apply them to their own writing, and they learn to express themselves coherently through the written word.

 

Critical thinking

 

The study of English Literature helps children develop their ability to think critically about different topics and themes, while developing their research skills. They learn how to understand different experiences and explore a variety of viewpoints, which helps broaden their perspective. This can have a positive impact on their social skills, allowing children to communicate more effectively with others and generally be more empathetic and open-minded. Studying English Literature also teaches children how to develop a line of argument and communicate it in writing through essays or other written projects.

 

Concentration and focus

 

As they mature, children read longer and more complex texts, which improves their ability to focus on something for a longer time period and concentrate on complicated subject matter. This can have a knock-on effect on their study of other subjects, or on their attention levels and ability to focus during extra-curricular activities. 

 

Creativity and imagination

 

Through the study of different forms of literature, children get the opportunity to explore their own imaginative capabilities. They use their imagination to visualise settings and characters based on what they’ve read, and apply their creativity to writing essays based on what they’ve studied. 

 

Relaxation and enjoyment

 

Giving children the chance to read and explore a range of texts may lead to them developing a deep interest in reading and writing, and it can be a great source of entertainment and a way for them to relax away from a TV or phone screen. They may even decide to write their own stories and flex their creative muscles even further.

 

As you can see, the study of English Literature at school can enrich children’s lives in so many ways, providing them with valuable skills for the future and an opportunity to explore their own creativity and imagination. 

 

*Photo source 

 

 

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