Do children who achieve a high level of Reading Comprehension read voluntarily and for recreation?

Abstract

This study aims at determining the reading habits of 4th Grade students (4th Primary) who reach an advanced level of reading comprehension. They were evaluated in the 2011 SIMCE test, in Chile.  A survey about reading behaviors was conducted in a sample of 107 students from two schools in Talca, Maule region. In this study were items were evaluated: various behaviors associated with reading such as reading habits, defined as behaviors linked with the number of books read voluntarily and the taste for reading; frequency of use of the library and the priority of reading within the student’s free time; type of support utilized for reading and the role of parents in motivating their children to read. The results show that reaching a good level of reading comprehension does not ensure good reading habits or the enjoyment and pleasure of reading. The study also shows that students rarely use the school library and the low reading motivation they get from their parents.