What is literacy? Being literate means that you are able to understand and analyse what you read, plus write in a variety of ways depending on the purpose, such as filling out forms, sending text messages, creating lists or writing a story.
Read Write Now also encourages the use of technology as part of building literacy. We don't want to see our students left behind in digital literacy.
Literacy is not just about reading books, it includes many skills such as being able to use phone books and online directories, automatic teller machines and online banking, street directories and online maps, bus timetables, completing taxation and other forms, and simple maths needed in everyday life - so everyone needs literacy!
It is estimated that 90% of reading failure occurs in the first two years of school for reasons such as;
- Children develop at different rates - and some are just not ready to learn how to read when they first start school. They don't catch on to the initial teaching and get further behind each year because subsequent instruction doesn't make sense.
- Inexperienced teachers were often allocated to the youngest classes and initial teaching may have been inadequate.
- Illness, family problems or frequent changes of school resulted in interrupted learning.
Not necessarily. Some people missed out at school due to ill health, difficult family circumstances or disrupted education. Others have lost skills they once had through lack of any opportunities to use them or because of lack of confidence. The good news is that it is never too late to learn.
Literacy skills are like muscles, they are maintained and strengthened through regular use (Literacy Skills for the Knowledge Society, Statistics Canada, 1997).
Read Write Now is a volunteer-based initiative in Western Australia that offers free literacy tutoring to adults looking to improve their reading, writing, and numeracy skills.
The program is open to adults aged 18 and over who need help with basic literacy and numeracy. Participants must be permanent residents or citizens of Western Australia and have a functional level of English if from overseas.The program is open to adults aged 18 and over who need help with basic literacy and numeracy. Participants must be permanent residents or citizens of Western Australia and have a functional level of English if from overseas.
You can sign up by contacting our office via phone or email, or by filling out the registration form on our website. You will then meet with the volunteer coordinator of your region to discuss your needs and find the best match for you.
No, the Read Write Now program is completely free for all participants.
Tutoring sessions are usually held once a week, but the frequency can be adjusted based on your needs and availability.
Sessions can take place at various locations, such as community centres, libraries, or online, depending on what’s most convenient for you and your tutor.
All necessary materials, like books and worksheets, will be provided by the program. Tutors may also use additional resources tailored to your needs.
Yes, we’re always looking for dedicated volunteers to join our team. If you’re interested in becoming a tutor, please contact us for more information on the application process and training.
While no formal teaching qualifications are required, tutors should have good literacy skills, patience, and a passion for helping others. We provide training and support to all our volunteers.