Education Today Education Today Magazine
Non-fiction November is a month-long reading initiative aimed at encouraging students to explore a genre of book that conveys information about the real world, from investigative journalism and history to biographies and memoirs.
The annual event celebrates the reading of information to expand knowledge, explore individual interests, and can have a notable impact on our society, as young people discover global issues and historical events which have shaped the world that we live in today.
This year’s edition is titled ‘Why Don’t You’ and aims to encourage discussion around hobbies and leisure activities.
The reading of non-fiction in schools could also directly impact how global issues such as climate change are perceived in the long-term, after the National Literacy Trust found that those who read non-fiction are more likely to take care of the environment.
Constance Mantle, CEO of SaveMyExams, a leading online education platform, explains how the pros of reading this genre could correlate to tackling global challenges in the future: “Non-fiction reading is a vital part of school education, with it able to help enhance knowledge of the world, develop critical thinking and support personal development; skills which are ultimately imperative in adulthood and inspiring future leaders within industry.
“Reading of non-fiction has already been shown to positively impact perceptions of the environment. Its unique ability to enhance a readers’ knowledge of the world means that the genre is likely to continually help educate students on a variety of global issues, such as history, politics, and science.
“As well as making students more socially aware, non-fiction reading exposes young people to differing perspectives to help develop critical thinking skills. The genre forces questions, analysis and scepticism, three skills which are vital when addressing future global issues such as climate change.
“Non-fiction reading can promote curiosity and invoke inspiration, as students discover topics and subjects that can support future careers and interests. The genre additionally helps embrace a willingness to be open to change and to better understand failure, characteristics that help create individuals that can positively impact society.”
