Reading Really is Fundamental
No one is going to debate the importance of being able to read in order to learn and navigate through life. But reading provides many surprising and important additional benefits Reading makes kids better at math. A British study found that students who frequently read for pleasure not only had better vocabulary and spelling—which is to be expected—but that those students were also more proficient at math. The theory is that reading exposes students to new ideas, which may make new math concepts easier to comprehend. Reading fiction helps children be more empathetic. The University of Buffalo found that students who read novels could put themselves into other people’s situations more easily, and had increased compassion. Reading can boost self-esteem and communication skills. One education provider says that since students who read usually have an enhanced vocabulary, they can often find the words to express themselves and do not feel as frustrated and angry. Reading changes the structure of the brain. In a six-month daily reading program, scientists found that the amount of white matter in the area of the brain associated with language actually increased. Another study found that reading helps the brain exercise cognitive function. Article found on Edudemic.com By Pamela DeLoatch on April 14, 2015 |