American Kids Getting Even Worse at Reading
A recent study has shed some light on the alarming trend of declining reading skills among American children. The research, conducted by the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), has revealed that the reading abilities of 17-year-olds in the United States have continued to deteriorate over the past two decades.
The study found that in 2018, only 37 percent of high school seniors in the country demonstrated a “proficient” level of reading skills, leaving millions of students struggling to read at a level that is barely adequate for success in college or in the workplace. This is a marked decline from 2005, when 46% of seniors showed similar proficiency.
The report also revealed that there has been a significant widening of the reading achievement gap between higher- and lower-performing students, with students from more affluent backgrounds showing a significant advantage in reading skills. This divide is not only a concern for individual students, but also for the country’s overall competitiveness and economic growth.
The study’s findings are a stark reminder of the need for a shift in how we approach reading instruction in our schools. With the rise of digital media and the increasing importance of literacy in the digital age, it is essential that we prioritize high-quality reading instruction and provide the necessary resources and support to ensure that all students have the skills they need to succeed.
The question is, what can be done to turn this trend around and ensure that future generations of American students have the reading skills needed to succeed in the 21st century? The answers to this question will require a concerted effort from educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to prioritize reading instruction and ensure that all students have access to the resources and support they need to succeed.
