'MEC Press' December 2019 Publication 1. Newsletter December 2019 Vo 7 | Page 8

Literacy Corner
Dear Readers,
In the newly released Pisa Rankings (International standardised test scores) Irish teens are among the best
at reading in the developed world. Overall, teenagers in Ireland score highest for reading (8th out of 77
participating countries) and above average for maths (21st) and science (22nd). We do need your continued
support to encourage our students to pick up a book and continue to absorb vocabulary & learn about our
world. Our MEC teens are especially busy juggling academic and heavy extracurricular schedules.
Consequently, as adult role models, we need to foster reading as an enjoyable form of downtime and self-
care. Remember that reading literature also improves theory of mind and the capacity to identify and
understand others. These interpersonal skills are vital for adult life. Why don’t you select a book from our
'12 Books of Christmas' list on the next page and encourage your teen to enjoy one or two books over the
Christmas break.
MEC Literacy Committee
Pictured are the founding members of MEC Junior Bookclub,
Isobel Kelly, Éire Garcia and Holly Harrington with Ms Hadnett
and Ms Blythe.
Next Staff Book
Club Read
Junior Book Club
Junior book club met on 19 th of November for their last
discussion of 2019 and their early Christmas party.
This month's book was' The Maze Runner ' by James Dashner
and the group had a very insightful discussion on the use of
mystery, the theme of hope and our fascination with
dystopian worlds.
The next book club read is Louise O’ Neill’s ‘The Surface
Breaks.’ We invite all Juniors to join us for our January 21 st
book chats and treats. Please ask Ms Blythe or Ms Hadnett for
more information and remember everyone is welcome!
@G.Hadnett