LOCAL schools are being urged to get involved in this year’s Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee to promote literacy.
The initiative is a free online competition for Australian school students in Years 3 to 8 that aims to expand children’s vocabulary and encourage reading. Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann said the spelling bee, hosted by Kids News, is a fun way for students to develop a passion for words.
“Spelling bees are a lot of fun, and they have wider benefits like helping children develop confidence and a real love of words and language,” Mr Neumann said.
“Literacy skills provide a fundamental base to learning other skills and are one of the tools for success in life.
“There are some great prizes on offer too, including a return flight to Canberra to meet the Prime Minister with one night’s accommodation for each category winner, as well as iPads and HarperCollins book packs.”
Mr Neumann said schools in Blair can register to take part in this free competition by August 19 by visiting: www.spelling-bee.com.au.
“I would love to see all our local schools in Ipswich, the Somerset Region and Karana Downs area getting involved in the Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee,” he said.
“It is a great way for schools and their students to develop a love for words and spelling, which
helps to improve literacy, comprehension and critical thinking.”