Wider Reading & Research
WIDER READING & RESEARCH
What Is Wider Reading & Research?
Wider reading and research involve exploring materials beyond your core lesson content. This includes books, articles, videos, podcasts, and websites that deepen your subject knowledge. It builds independent learning, critical thinking, and creativity, and helps you stand out academically.
How to Engage in Wider Reading & Research Effectively
- Identify a topic or question you want to explore further.
- Use reliable sources such as school libraries, academic websites, and documentaries.
- Set a goal for each reading session—what do you hope to find out?
- Take notes in your own words. Summarise, highlight and question ideas as you read.
- Organise your research using folders, apps, or journals.
- Use your research to write, present, or create something that demonstrates your understanding.
Top Tips for Getting the Most Out of Wider Reading
✔ Choose sources you enjoy—TED Talks, YouTube explainers, or news articles.
✔ Discuss your findings with classmates or teachers to deepen understanding.
✔ Use annotation tools when reading PDFs or articles online.
✔ Follow reading lists provided by teachers or curriculum guides.
✔ Be curious—let one idea lead you to another!
Why Wider Reading Helps You Learn Better
Wider reading develops a deeper, broader understanding of your subjects. It enhances vocabulary, connects classroom ideas to the real world, and prepares you for high-level assessments. Research and reading outside the classroom encourage independence and a lifelong love of learning.
Examples of Wider Reading Activities
📚 Reading a historical novel related to your History topic.
🎧 Listening to a science podcast on climate change.
📺 Watching a documentary on human evolution for Biology.
🔍 Researching different perspectives on a debate in English or Politics.
📰 Reading news articles to stay up to date with current affairs.