Why is it important for students to make connections while reading?

Making connections while reading is crucial because it enhances students' personal relevance and understanding of the text. When readers can relate the material to their own experiences, knowledge, or to other texts, they engage in a deeper level of comprehension. This process allows them to see the significance of the content beyond the words on the page; they can appreciate themes, character motivations, and the overall message more fully. This connection fosters critical thinking, helping students to synthesize new information with what they already know, thus enriching their learning experience. It encourages active participation in the reading process, leading to improved retention and a more enjoyable reading experience.

In contrast, memorizing content quickly may not enable long-term understanding, and discouraging distractions or limiting focus solely on the narrative would restrict the breadth of interactions a reader can have with the text. Without making connections, students may miss deeper insights, themes, and meaningful interpretations.