Why reading matters

WHY READING MATTERS

• Fill in the blanks with the corresponding word. Sometimes there may be more than one right choice.

We’re always telling children that books and reading are good for them, but have we ever really thought 1) __________ why that’s true?  Exactly what do older children get out of reading novels?  What do younger kids get from reading children’s stories and being read to?  Does reading matter?

The purpose of this article is to say that, yes, it’s true, reading really is important, and that there are some solid reasons 2) __________ that is so.  Let’s begin with the practical benefits and then move on to the less tangible rewards of a life filled with reading.

Reading is an important skill that needs to be developed in children.  3) __________ only is it necessary for survival in the world of schools and (later on) universities, but in adult life as well.  The ability to learn about new subjects and find helpful information on anything 4) __________ health problems and consumer protection to more academic research into science or the arts depends on the ability to read.

Futurologists used to predict the death of the printed word but, ironically, Internet has made reading more and more a part of people’s daily lives.  The paperless society is a myth.  The computer’s ability to process and analyze data means that endless variations on reports and other types of documents can be and are generated.  Internet, itself an enormous new source of information and recreation, is based 5) __________ the humble written word.  To effectively utilize the web and judge the authenticity and value of 6) __________ is found there, both reading and critical thinking skills are of prime importance.

The more children read, the 7) __________ they become at reading.  It’s as simple as that.  The more enjoyable the things they read are, the more they’ll stick with them and develop the reading skills that they’ll need for full access 8) __________ information in their adult lives.  Reading should be viewed as a pleasurable activity – 9) __________ a source of entertaining tales and useful and interesting factual information.

The more young children read stories and are read to, the greater their interest in mastering reading.  Reading 10) __________ loud exposes children to proper grammar and phrasing.  It enhances the development of their spoken language skills, their ability to express themselves verbally.

Reading, by way of books, children’s stories, magazines or websites, exposes kids to new vocabulary. Even when they don’t understand every new word, they absorb something from the context that may deepen their understanding of it the next time the word is encountered.  When parents read aloud to children, the children also hear correct pronunciation as they see the words on the page, even if they can’t yet read the words on their own.

Answer key:

1. ABOUT
2. WHY
3. NOT
4. FROM
5. ON
6. WHAT / WHATEVER
7. BETTER / FASTER
8. TO
9. AS
10. OUT