Reading Writing Relationship

          Research continues to find correlation between reading and writing.  According to the Wisconsin State Reading Association "Reading and Writing are parallel processes.   Both are purposeful, are dependent on background knowledge and experiences, and are focused on the construction of meaning".  By reading everyday, one will naturally discover connections between reading and writing.  How does reading help writing? By understanding and interpreting some reading material, one can make an evaluation in writing.  There are three stages of correlation between reading and writing, according to Daniel Kies, Department of English, College of Du Page.  First stage is reading for content; this will help write an abstract.  Second stage is reading for interpretation; this will help write an analysis.  Third stage is reading to evaluate; this will help write an argument or critique.  Kies writes that the simplest way to relate reading to writing is by making a summary of what has been read.  By understanding some reading material that is reflected in a summary, one can make a response in writing.  The summary can be developed into writing analysis and argument.  In this case, the connection between reading and writing is clear; they are supportive of each other; writing is only made possible by critically reading what is written.
 
 
  Written by Maria Andi, October, 2001.