The MathsHub Approach to Teaching English

NAPLAN assessments test key areas of literacy, including reading, writing, spelling, and grammar. Among these, reading is the cornerstone skill that influences success across all components of the test. At MathsHub, we recognise the pivotal role reading plays in literacy development, which is why it is integrated into all aspects of our English curriculum.

Here’s why reading is so vital and how our approach at MathsHub ensures students achieve their best in NAPLAN and beyond.

1. Reading Is the Foundation of NAPLAN

The reading section of NAPLAN assesses comprehension, inference, and the ability to analyse different types of texts. Strong reading skills are essential not just to succeed in this section but also to perform well in writing and language conventions.

At MathsHub, we focus on developing students’ reading comprehension through exposure to a wide range of texts, including narratives, persuasive articles, and informational writing. By practising how to extract meaning, identify main ideas, and interpret subtle messages, students build the skills they need to tackle even the most challenging NAPLAN reading questions.

2. Reading Enhances Writing

To write effectively, students need inspiration, structure, and clarity — skills they develop through reading.

• Understanding Text Types: NAPLAN writing tasks often require students to produce narratives or persuasive texts. At MathsHub, we teach these text types by analysing examples during reading sessions, showing students how to structure their ideas and use language creatively.
• Expanding Vocabulary: Reading enriches vocabulary, helping students use precise and varied language in their writing. Our program integrates targeted vocabulary-building exercises derived from the texts we study.
• Mastering Sentence Structure: Reading exposes students to well-constructed sentences, which they emulate in their own writing. Through guided practice, they learn how to craft their ideas clearly and effectively.

This integration of reading into writing instruction ensures students are well-prepared to excel in NAPLAN’s writing tasks.

3. Reinforcing Language Conventions

Spelling, grammar, and punctuation — key components of the NAPLAN language conventions section — are naturally reinforced through reading.

• Spelling: At MathsHub, we emphasise the importance of contextual learning. Students are exposed to correct spelling within meaningful texts, helping them remember and apply spelling rules more effectively.
• Grammar and Punctuation: By analysing how professional authors use grammar and punctuation, students gain a deeper understanding of these rules. Our curriculum incorporates grammar lessons directly tied to the texts students read, ensuring practical application.

This contextual approach helps students internalise language conventions and apply them confidently in NAPLAN.

4. Developing Critical Thinking

NAPLAN tasks require students to think critically, whether analysing a text, constructing an argument, or solving language problems. Reading is essential for developing this skill.

At MathsHub, we guide students through critical reading exercises, encouraging them to question, analyse, and interpret what they read. These discussions not only improve comprehension but also enhance their ability to construct logical arguments and evaluate ideas, skills that are invaluable for both the reading and writing components of NAPLAN.

5. Building Confidence Across All Areas

Strong reading skills give students confidence in every aspect of NAPLAN. When students are comfortable interpreting texts, they approach writing tasks, comprehension questions, and language conventions with greater ease.

At MathsHub, our reading-focused approach ensures students feel prepared and empowered. By exposing them to a variety of text types and guiding them through targeted exercises, we help build the confidence they need to excel.

How Reading is Integrated into the MathsHub Curriculum

At MathsHub, reading is not treated as a standalone skill but as an essential part of our comprehensive English curriculum. Here’s how we integrate it:

• Reading Practice: Students read a variety of texts, from stories to persuasive articles, to strengthen comprehension and broaden their knowledge.
• Text Analysis for Writing: Every writing lesson begins with reading a model text to understand structure, tone, and language use.
• Vocabulary and Grammar Development: Lessons include activities that connect the vocabulary and grammar found in reading materials with students’ own writing.
• Critical Thinking Discussions: Group discussions about reading materials encourage students to think deeply, improving their analytical and evaluative skills.

This holistic approach ensures students not only perform well in NAPLAN but also develop literacy skills that last a lifetime.

Conclusion

Reading is the foundation of success in NAPLAN and beyond. It enhances writing, reinforces language conventions, and develops critical thinking, all while building the confidence students need to tackle challenges. That’s why at MathsHub, reading is seamlessly integrated into all aspects of our English curriculum. By fostering strong reading habits, we ensure that students are not only prepared for NAPLAN but also equipped with the skills needed for academic success and lifelong learning.