WHY READING MATTERS
Recent studies point to the urgent need to encourage reading and to provide
books that appeal to students, especially boys and at risk students.
The latest (2003) National Assessment of Education Progress found
that
- among 8th grade students, female students had higher
reading scores than male.
- students on free/reduced lunch had lower average
scores.
- students who read more daily in or out of school had
higher average scores.
- students who had to write more long answers on tests or
assignments had higher reading scores.
- Louisiana
8th grade reading scores are below the national average. Only four
states rank below Louisiana.
- Scores by blacks and Hispanics are significantly lower
than white and Asian scores.
Other surveys have reported additional relevant facts,
such as
- the amount of time spent in reading outside school has
steadily declined over the past few decades.
- girls tend to show more enthusiasm for reading than boys.
- the amount of time spent in reading has a strong
correlation with vocabulary development and reading comprehension.
Promoting increased reading by students is an important
component in improving student academic achievement. It also helps students in
achieving a stronger feeling of self worth.
