THE NATIONAL READING COMPETITION 2011

Background

The National Reading Competition was launched in 1988 as part of the 40th Anniversary celebrations of Jamaica Library Service. At that time, it involved only the age group 9 to 11 years. With the accelerating success, heightened levels of expectation and enthusiasm from all stake holders, the competition has now expanded to include additional age levels allowing persons from ages 6 to 99 to enter and enjoy the benefits of reading.

Objectives

The main objectives of the competition are:

1. to encourage the reading habit
2. develop the reading skill
3. cultivate an appreciation of books
4. facilitate exposure to highly rated literature and
5. foster continuing education in adults

As a highly publicized event, the competition assists participants in developing self-confidence, a zest for achievment and a life-long love for reading and learning.

Each year the Jamaica Library Service strives to produce a package that is interesting and challenging, yet enjoyable; one that reinforces reading as a positive and fun activity, thus hundreds of enthusiastic competitors are encouraged to vie for the top positions in this exciting competition which provides attractive prizes and a platform to share their love for reading with the wider Jamaica.

Organization

The National Reading Competition is organized annually on an all-island basis over the five-month period, April to August. The preliminary round for children is held at individual service points/libraries. Following this, these winners compete at the parish level and Parish Champions are selected for each of the three age groups, 6 to 8, 9 to 11 and 12 to 14 years of age.

In 1999, a category for adults was introduced, involving persons who were 15 years of age and over. Then in 2006, the adult category was modified and now features two age groupings:

• 15 to 20 years
• 21 years and over

This additional feature allows for a more realistic grouping of the reading, comprehension and interpretation abilities of young adults versus the more mature capabilities and views of older adults. The division recognizes differences in expected levels of information exposure and knowledge gained. This was eagerly embraced by persons in this category who now have more chances to enter and win in the adult segment of the competition.

Testing

Testing at each stage includes a mix of oral and written elements such as, letters, book reviews and puzzles. The competitors' ability to read, understand and interpret set books, or excerpts of books is the main determinant for selection. The adult segment of the competition is run concurrently with the children's segment and emphasizes the reading of mainly West Indian literature. The final stage begins in mid-July and culminates in the National Reading Competition Quiz Finals held at the TVJ Studios at the end of August. One National Champion emerges from each category after these very competitive segments are completed. They are the individuals who, when all scores are tallied, gain the highest marks in their respective age categories.

next