Research Article Review

      Infusing Reading Into Science

      To be scientifically literate means being able to both read and understand a multitude of science texts and form valid conclusions, while also being able to participate in meaningful conversations about science. Despite the importance of scientific literacy, students today are struggling with reading their textbooks and content-area materials. The focus is more on covering content rather than learning how to learn from the texts.  
      To test the importance of science literacy in the classroom, a group of University of Florida research students collaborated in 2004 to create lesson plans, book lists, and other tools to expose the students to more reading in science. Students in this study were explicitly instructed in science-related language skills and reading strategies. They also were provided with award-winning science trade books through a home reading program.
      According to Zmach et al, the results from the research study suggest that "the students who received reading strategy instruction and access to award-winning science books had higher achievement in sciences than did students who did not receive such interventions" (2006, p. 63). By learning how to read scientific literature, it was seen that the students could be exposed to more difficult texts which could expand their learning on science. And as stated before, the learning did not just end in the classroom. Students took home award-winning literature to read and discuss with their families. They also were provided the opportunity to discuss their literature with the class and show what they had learned. These discussions allowed students to talk more in-depth about a topic and created engagement and excitement about learning. 
      After the research project ended in 2005, the teachers at the school continued to use engaging reading materials in the classroom. Unfortunately, many students are unprepared to tackle such difficult texts. This difficulty severely limits the amount of scientific knowledge that the student can gain. Using scientific literature may be proven to be beneficial to students, but it is up to the classroom science teachers to assume responsibility and provide science literature that students can read and enjoy. The teachers also need to help students develop strategies to read more efficiently. Teaching reading skills nos not an extra part of classroom learning, but an essential one.