IGS Hefei proudly commemorated UNESCO World Book Day by holding its first Read-a-thon Week between 20th-24th April 2026. The initiative was organized to promote a love for reading through inclusive, accessible and fun activities for learners across age groups.
On Monday, April 20th, learners were introduced to the concept of Read-a-thon. Likened to a marathon, learners were encouraged and motivated to participate in this exciting race to read as much as possible. The challenge demanded not only breadth (and breathe!) but also depth, as learners were required to use their mental stamina to chronicle their reading in the process. Did they rise to the challenge? Read on to find out…
Tuesday saw two popular stories being brought to life – our Grade 5s and 6s performed the famous Tea Party scene from Alice in Wonderland in English, while Grades 7 and 8 put on a thoroughly entertaining bilingual rendition of Snow White. Both performances showed exceptional creativity and talent, had the audience in fits of giggles, and made interactive theatre a reality at IGS.
The entertainment did not end there, as Western and Chinese culture merged on Wednesday, in the form of Shadow Puppet Theatre. We were honoured to have professional shadow puppet artists perform the The Fox and the Crow, The Tortoise and the Hare and popular Chinese tale Carp Leaps Over Dragon Gate. Our Kindergarten learners joined the experience and were entranced by the colourful and funny puppets used to narrate the tales.
At the end of the performance, learners were given an opportunity to go backstage and practice the art of puppeteering! The performance highlighted how easily storytelling can transcend and unite cultures, an inclusive goal which we strive for in all our learning at IGS.
Some of the other values we aim to instill in our learners are teamwork and mentorship. These two values inspired Thursday’s Paired Reading initiative, where learners upwards of Grades 4 were tasked to lead the lower primary learners in reading. It was heartwarming to see learners using kindness as a medium in crossing age barriers to achieve their common goal.
Just when the high energy of the week seemed to simmer, the long-awaited, much anticipated Book Character Day finally arrived at IGS! From Red-Riding-Hood to Harry Potter, on Friday both learners and teachers embraced the spirit of the day with enthusiasm and excitement. IGS citizens walked the red carpet, voted for their favourite costumes and posed at the Read-a-thon Photobooth, insta-style, to conclude a vibrant week of bringing books to life.
So, did our learners rise to the challenge of a reading race? Absolutely! From overcoming phonics hurdles to deciphering deep metaphors, learners at IGS expressed a pioneering spirit during Read-a-thon and continue to forge ahead. Our Read-a-thon challenge concludes on May 20th, and the final winners will be announced at the June assembly.