Building Background Knowledge These School Holidays
Did you know that a strong foundation of background knowledge plays a critical role in literacy development? During the school holidays, you have a unique opportunity to expand your child’s understanding of the world, which can directly enhance their reading comprehension, vocabulary, and overall learning success.
In this blog we’ll explore why background knowledge matters, how it impacts literacy, and practical, fun ways to help your child grow their knowledge while enjoying their break.
What Is Background Knowledge, and Why Does It Matter?
Background knowledge refers to the information and experiences a child has accumulated about the world. It includes knowledge of people, places, concepts, and ideas.
When children read, they don't just decode words - they also draw upon their existing knowledge to make sense of the text. A child with strong background knowledge has a contextual advantage when encountering new words and ideas, making reading more accessible and meaningful.
The Research
Reading Comprehension Connection: According to Cervetti and Hiebert (2015), reading comprehension is strongly influenced by the reader's prior knowledge of a topic.
Vocabulary Growth: Beck, McKeown, and Kucan (2013) found that exposure to new ideas enriches vocabulary, which is essential for literacy development.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap: Studies by Willingham (2006) show that children from knowledge-rich environments perform better academically, as they can link what they read to what they already know.
How Building Background Knowledge Boosts Literacy Skills
Enhances Vocabulary:
Encountering new experiences introduces your child to words they may later encounter in books or discussions. For example, a trip to the zoo might introduce terms like “habitat” or “nocturnal.”Improves Reading Comprehension:
The more a child knows about a topic, the easier it is to understand texts related to it. Familiarity reduces the cognitive load, allowing more focus on interpreting meaning.Strengthens Critical Thinking:
With a wealth of knowledge, children can draw comparisons, make inferences, and analyse information effectively.Supports Academic Success:
Background knowledge is foundational across subjects, helping children excel in areas like science, social sciences, and even mathematics, where contextual understanding is key.
How to Build Background Knowledge Over the Holidays
1. Explore New Places
Visits to museums, parks, the art gallery and cultural sites offer rich opportunities for learning. Engage your child by discussing what they see and encouraging them to ask questions.
2. Encourage Hands-On Activities
Activities like cooking, gardening, or building projects not only develop practical skills but also introduce related vocabulary and concepts. For example: Baking Christmas cookies could lead to discussions about measurements, temperature, and chemistry.
3. Have Conversations
Everyday discussions can build knowledge. Talk about current events, family history, or topics your child shows interest in. The dinner table or long car rides are a great opportunity for this!
4. Integrate Background Knowledge into Play
Play-based learning can be a powerful tool. Set up pretend scenarios like running a grocery store, exploring outer space, or traveling to a new country. For example: Playing “grocery shopping” can introduce concepts like budgeting and nutrition.
Making the Connection to Literacy
When you help your child build background knowledge, you're not just preparing them for academic success - you’re developing a love of learning. Reading about a topic becomes much more exciting when a child can relate to the content, whether it's remembering their trip to the beach while reading about marine life or connecting their garden project to a book about plants.
Tips to Maximize Impact
Be Intentional: Choose activities that align with your child’s interests and upcoming school topics.
Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage your child to think critically about their experiences.
Revisit Experiences: Follow up activities with books, conversations, or crafts to reinforce what they’ve learned.
The school holidays are a golden opportunity to enrich your child’s background knowledge in fun and meaningful ways. By intentionally incorporating experiences, discussions, and activities into their break, you’re not only boosting their literacy skills but also developing curiosity and confidence in learning.
Remember, the world is a classroom, and every experience - big or small - adds to the knowledge foundation your child will draw upon throughout their life.
References
Cervetti, G., & Hiebert, E. (2015). Knowledge, Literacy, and the Common Core. The Reading Teacher, 68(6), 361-368.
Beck, I. L., McKeown, M. G., & Kucan, L. (2013). Bringing Words to Life: Robust Vocabulary Instruction. Guilford Press.
Willingham, D. T. (2006). How Knowledge Helps. American Educator, 30(1), 30-37.
