MASTER READER:Learning through reading

The Daily Star recently launched its newest campaign, "Master Reader", in association with Igloo Ice Cream, which focuses on encouraging the habit of reading among young students.

The competition will include students from 11 different English medium schools around the country where they will be tested on their vocabulary, reading and public speaking skills. Group 1 consists of students from Classes 5 and 6, while Group 2 consists of students from Classes 7 and 8.

The school round of competition kicked off at Averroes International School and Dhanmondi Tutorial on October 17, 2019 and October 20, 2019, respectively. Each group consisted of around 20 students.

PHOTO: ORCHID CHAKMA

Group 1 competed in a reading competition, where each student was asked to read an article from SHOUT in front of a panel of judges. The students were judged based on their projection, speed, and engagement while reading.

Group 2 competed in a public speaking competition. Each student was asked to read a particular article published in SHOUT and were given time to prepare an impromptu speech based on that article. During their speech, they were judged on the content, style and interaction.

Each group also participated in fun word games such as crossword puzzle and word search that tested their vocabulary. As scores from the competitions and games were tallied, one student from each group was selected as the winner of the first round.

Students from Averroes International School showed an exceptional grasp on English language and many of them spoke of their interest in becoming writers when they grow up. When asked about their favourite part of the competition, most of them cited their love for the word games. The winners of Group 1 and 2 were Ayeshah Amin from Class 5, and Aishah Bint Shafquat from Class 8, respectively.

Over at Dhanmondi Tutorial, students proved to be meticulous in their public speaking skills as many of them are highly focused on debating. When asked to prepare impromptu speeches, majority of the students showed excellent time management skills having prepared detailed notes for their speeches. Farhan Mahfuz of Class 6 was the winner from Group 1 and Nahiyan Mahmud of Class 8 was the winner from Group 2.

Each school round winners will get a chance to represent their institutions during the final round of Master Reader, where they will be competing for the championship title against students from 9 other English medium schools from all over the country.