According to the Literacy Project Foundation, "50% of adults cannot read a book written at an eighth grade level" and "45 million are functionally illiterate and read below a 5th grade level."^Literacy Project Foundation Meanwhile, the King James Version is rated at a 12th grade reading level.^Christianbook.com
Therefore, as a Sunday school teacher you should be aware that a number of your students may have difficulty in reading. Some may have difficulty in reading the King James Version, especially uncommon biblical names.
How can you lower the reading barrier in your class?

  1. Be sure to practice reading the scripture text yourself, so that you can read it fluently.
  2. If there are difficult words/names to pronounce, lead the class in pronouncing these various words before reading the text.
  3. Avoid asking those who struggle reading or those who are new to your class to read, especially the more difficult verses.
  4. Do NOT correct (and thereby embarrass) students when they mispronounce or struggle with various words.