Language and literacy provide us with the building blocks not just for academic success, but for fulfilling careers and rewarding lives. Consequently, the EEF has focused considerable effort in this area – particularly for younger and for struggling readers – through our KS2/3 transition funding of 24 literacy projects and our ongoing Primary Literacy Campaign in the North-East of England.
Language and literacy are grouped together in this theme as they are closely related. Language is especially important in the Early Years and it continues to be important through primary and secondary education. The EEF’s science literature review found that students reading capability was the best predictor of later science achievement. We also know that a focus on language and literacy is especially important for pupils with English as an Additional Language.