Why It Matters: Importance of Reading & Writing
Reading and writing are fundamentally laced together. Each is founded on one’s oral language, turning the spoken sounds into symbols, which carry meaning (Bretzmann, 2018). Research (Scarborough, 2001; Snow, 1983) demonstrates a strong correlation between a child’s oral language development and their literacy progression.
The abilities to read and write are not only necessary for one’s success in school, but in one’s lifelong achievements. As stated by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 2001, “It goes without saying that failure to learn to read places children’s futures and lives at risk for highly deleterious outcomes,” (as cited in McCardle & Chhabra, 2004, pg 13).
Since 1969, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) has assessed and evaluated results of our educational system. Over the years, these national assessments of our young children’s reading and writing abilities has remained low, with approximately 30% of our children scoring at a proficient level or higher (National Center for Education Statistics, 2021).
The 2019 NAEP found that 35% of fourth graders and 34% of eighth graders reached the proficient level or higher in reading. This leaves approximately 66% of our student body below a competent level in reading.
Writing scores are even lower. The 2011 NAEP revealed that 30% of eighth and twelfth graders reaching a proficient level or higher. That means that 70% of our students are below a competent level in writing.