The Critical Importance of Early Grade Reading and Assessment Working Papers:December 2014

Abstract

Research analyzing the link between dropout and the literacy skills of 4,000 students in the United States found that students who are unable to read proficiently by the end of the third grade are four times more likely to leave school without a diploma than proficient readers. Research also suggests that poor readers are more likely to experience behavioural and social problems in subsequent grades and are more likely to repeat grades. This affects the social and economic wellbeing of these children in future life. Thus, teaching children to read at a young age is the cornerstone of improving educational outcomes.