Independent Reading in the Classroom Critical to Student Achievement
Despite the explosion of apps and games and online videos, kids are still reading, and many are doing it the old fashioned way with printed books. Just like us, kids pick up books because reading is fun. It lets them explore other worlds, go on adventures, and recognize themselves in their favorite characters, showing them that they are not alone.
But if we want them to keep reading, we need to find ways to keep it fun. Scholastic is the largest publisher and distributor of children’s book in the world, and NEA Today recently spoke with Judy Newman, president of Scholastic Book Clubs, about trends in reading among children.
Why is reading for fun important for students academically?
Judy Newman: The most critical skill for success in school or in life is the ability to read well. Reading is the only way to build usable vocabulary because in books, words are written in a context, with meaning and nuance. You need to build your vocabulary over time by reading. Once you have a strong, dynamic vocabulary you can translate your thoughts and ideas (and hopes and dreams), and communicate them to others.