It’s easy to go an entire day without opening a book. On-demand entertainment platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Netflix make reading for pleasure feel less like a hobby and more of an assignment. However, as reading proficiency declines nationwide, students should rethink the role reading plays in their lives.
According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), the average reading score for 12th graders has been declining since 1992. Additionally, the NAEP reported that only about a quarter of students in 12th grade reported having a high level of interest in reading. This suggests that the dropping reading proficiency scores in high school students are linked to a decrease in reading for pleasure.
Not only is reading proficiency an skill for English class, but having high reading proficiency helps students to evaluate, interpret, and analyze information. The ability to understand and process information critically is crucial in a world where a constant flow of information is displayed almost everywhere. Critical thinking allows students to distinguish credible information, make informed decisions, and form opinions in a society where new information is constantly being pushed.
Having a genuine interest in reading can benefit students’ future careers, relationships, and everyday life. There are several benefits to reading, including lower stress levels, better sleep, and a decrease in loneliness and social isolation, according to the Center for Adult Education. These benefits can help students manage stress better, navigate relationships more effectively, and become further prepared for future careers by being able to better interact with others.
It’s true that many English teachers require students to read books for class and eventually write essays or book reports on the pre-selected books. Even if students are reading assigned materials, having non-school-related reading materials in the classroom means teachers should have books on hand for students during free time, instead of allowing students to default to their phones. Not every student needs to become an avid reader and finish books every week. Instead, students need to be able to view reading as a source of entertainment and information. Students need regular, and even daily, opportunities to build reading comprehension skills and discover books that they actually enjoy.
Simply telling students to “just read more” isn’t the solution. Berkeley High School should make reading more accessible and push students to consider reading as a source of entertainment. Teachers should allow for more time for independent reading in class and allow students the opportunity to choose books themselves, instead of just assigning a book for every kid in a class. BHS should further promote reading by organizing library events to expand the exposure that students have to the book selection at BHS.