Music notation is a means to communicate on paper what you want someone else to play on their instrument. If the student is considering playing the bass professionally, then having this skill is one of the keys to a successful career.
My reading program is divided into 3 main sections. These are first, knowing all of the note names on the bass neck. Secondly, knowing the written range of the bass. This means being able to identify the note on the page and its location on the bass neck. And third, learning how to count and play rhythmic notations on the page. After the student has a working knowledge of the basic reading skills, we move on to professional bass charts. I have collected several hundred of these charts throughout my professional career including charts from studio recording sessions. These charts will give the student real-life experience and preparation for professional reading situations.