Language Strengthening Efforts during School Holidays

Language Strengthening Efforts during School Holidays, SIUS, is a government initiative aimed at strengthening students’ reading skills. It is a pilot program in which the Swedish National Agency for Education has commissioned our research group, IntensiveSwedish, to develop and test a model for language strengthening efforts during school holidays. School authorities, teachers, and student teachers are offered access to teaching materials, methods, mini‑trainings, and networks for exchanging experiences. It is also possible to apply for government grants to support students’ language‑enhancing instruction during the school holidays.

Research‑Based Support

IntensiveSwedish, our research group, develops and tests materials, methods, and instructional designs for holiday‑based teaching carried out in preschool class and grades 1–6. The model focuses on reading ability and includes the other language skills (writing, listening, speaking), as these are important for the components that make up reading proficiency. The model considers all stages of the reading acquisition and development process—from phonological awareness and various types of decoding to vocabulary, reading fluency, and reading comprehension.

Prospective first‑language and second‑language readers have different knowledge bases and prerequisites for learning to read in Swedish, regardless of age. These significant differences constitute important knowledge for planning instruction, and the course addresses both first‑language and second‑language perspectives for different age groups, from preschool to upper secondary school.