Kerala Schools to Incentivize Reading Habits with Grace Marks and Special Sessions

Kerala, long celebrated for its high literacy rate and quality education, is now taking a bold step to further enhance the reading habits of its schoolchildren. In a recent announcement, the State General Education Minister, V Sivankutty, revealed a pioneering initiative aimed at encouraging students across state-run schools to develop and sustain a love for reading. Starting from the upcoming academic year, children who actively engage in reading activities will be awarded “grace marks,” an academic incentive to reward and promote consistent reading.

Grace Marks for Reading: Encouraging a Lifelong Habit

This move by the Kerala Education Department is designed to acknowledge and reward students’ efforts in cultivating reading skills—a foundation crucial for academic success and lifelong learning. Grace marks, which are additional points added to students’ scores, will be given to those who demonstrate regular participation in reading exercises. This approach not only motivates children but also integrates reading habits into the formal academic assessment system, signaling the government’s strong commitment to literacy.

Minister Sivankutty explained that these grace marks will be a significant motivation, especially in the formative years of schooling, helping children see reading as an enjoyable and rewarding activity rather than a chore.

Structured Reading Sessions for All Grades

To complement this incentive, the Education Department is instituting dedicated reading periods within the school timetable. These sessions will be tailored to different age groups to maximize their effectiveness.

• Grades 1 to 4: Young learners will participate in weekly reading sessions focused on age-appropriate books and story-telling activities. These sessions aim to build foundational reading skills, vocabulary, and comprehension in a nurturing environment.
   
• Grades 5 to 12: Older students will engage in more advanced reading sessions centered around newspapers and current events. This approach not only strengthens reading and analytical skills but also encourages students to stay informed about the world around them. Follow-up exercises will help deepen understanding and critical thinking.

The inclusion of newspapers in the curriculum is particularly noteworthy, as it bridges academic learning with real-world knowledge, fostering well-rounded individuals.

Empowering Teachers through Training and Resources

Recognizing that successful implementation requires well-prepared educators, the government plans to provide comprehensive training for teachers on how to conduct these reading sessions effectively. A specially prepared handbook will guide teachers with practical activities, reading materials, and assessment methods designed to nurture and evaluate reading habits among students.

This professional development effort ensures that teachers are equipped not only to facilitate reading but also to inspire students to embrace reading as a daily habit.

Integration with Cultural Festivities: Reading Takes the Stage at Kalolsavam

Kerala’s unique approach goes beyond classroom instruction. The Education Department is exploring the possibility of incorporating a reading-focused segment within “Kalolsavam,” the state’s prestigious annual school arts festival. Known for showcasing talents in music, dance, drama, and visual arts, Kalolsavam will potentially become a platform to celebrate and promote reading culture among students.

This innovative idea will provide students with opportunities to creatively express their reading experiences and literary interests, further embedding reading into the cultural fabric of school life. By linking reading with arts and performance, the initiative seeks to make reading vibrant and appealing to a diverse student body.

Why This Matters: The Impact of Reading on Education and Beyond

Kerala has traditionally placed a strong emphasis on literacy, consistently ranking high among Indian states. Yet, the challenge of cultivating deep reading habits remains crucial. Research indicates that regular reading not only improves language skills but also enhances critical thinking, empathy, and academic performance across subjects.

By awarding grace marks and creating structured reading activities, Kerala’s education system is setting a strong example of how policy and practice can work together to foster literacy. This model can encourage other states to adopt similar measures, recognizing the importance of reading in shaping future-ready learners.

What to Expect Moving Forward

As the next academic year approaches, schools across Kerala will be preparing to implement these changes. Parents, teachers, and students can expect a more engaging reading environment supported by dedicated resources and innovative activities.

The Education Minister’s announcement signals a progressive vision—one where reading is celebrated, rewarded, and seamlessly integrated into the educational journey. With teacher training underway and planning for reading events in Kalolsavam, Kerala is poised to make reading a cornerstone of its education system.

In Summary:

• Kerala will award grace marks to students in state-run schools who develop reading habits.
• Weekly reading sessions will be organized: grades 1-4 will focus on storybooks and age-appropriate reading, while grades 5-12 will engage with newspapers and related exercises.
• Teachers will be trained and provided with handbooks to guide reading sessions.
• The annual school arts festival, Kalolsavam, may include a special segment promoting reading.
• The initiative aims to foster a lifelong culture of reading and improve overall educational outcomes.

If you’re a parent, teacher, or student in Kerala, this is an exciting time to embrace the joy of reading and see your efforts rewarded. Stay tuned for updates as schools gear up to bring this initiative to life!