The first years wrote speeches for their Leinster Public Speaking Exam during recent English classes. Carrie Barling speaks about one of her favourite things, books.
Many people in Ireland learn to read from a young age, for some it is ingrained in us to read to relax, for others reading is more of a chore. But is reading really worth it? Does it really make you smarter?
In an article by Cambridge Brain Sciences they discussed how your brain re-wires itself when you read. They said 'Reading has been there all along, making our brains better using the traditional but long-proven method of teaching us how to think better'. They also explained this can only happen with time and deep content, so me reading this really doesn't make me any smarter.
Reading can also reduce stress and lessen your chances of anxiety, heart problems, high blood pressure and mental health problems according to the world literacy foundation. In a study carried out by the University of Sussex in 2009 it showed a 69% decrease in stress just by reading!
Although binge watching all ten seasons of 'Friends' on Netflix is great, it's not all that good for you
So why do some people prefer tv over reading? Well watching tv is a passive activity, you as the audience are simply shown everything, that’s why it doesn't have the mental benefits of reading a book.
Reading is something that unites us, writers give us the chance to live out unimaginable things. When we read we learn about different people from different eras and worlds ,we learn empathy and kindness from characters writers made up in their heads. We can learn a lot from books, I first noticed this quote on the wall of the English room, it reads, ' a room without a book is like a body without a soul' and I agree with this completely. So I implore you pick up a book, it might just change your life.
My sources:
Book Smarts: The Brain Benefits of Reading
How Books and Television Affect Your Brain Differently, According to Science
Stratford College opened its doors on Sunday 6th September for a vibrant Open Day and welcomed prospective students and their families, and members of the community. The event started with presentations from the principal, Mr. Barrett, from Chief Rabbi Wieder, the Chair of the Board, and an inspiring student representative.
On Monday 8th September Ms Skehan and her TY Geography students had their Geography class at the beach by the River Dodder.
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On Friday morning, 4th September, there was huge excitement as 4th, 5th and 6th year students gathered in the hall with their Form tutors to go watch the amazing film - The Odyssey, written and directed by Christopher Nolan - in the Rathmines Omniplex cinema. In the IMAX1 cinema to be precise!
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