Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

How are reading and writing development related?

1. They are unrelated and should be taught separately

2. They are interrelated and support each other

3. One should be taught before the other

4. Reading is more important than writing

The correct answer is: They are interrelated and support each other

Reading and writing development are interrelated and support each other in several critical ways. When children engage with reading, they not only learn about language structure, vocabulary, and various genres but also develop comprehension skills that are essential for effective writing. As students read diverse texts, they become exposed to different writing styles, tones, and devices, which can influence their own writing processes. This reciprocal relationship means that strong reading skills can enhance writing abilities, as learners can incorporate techniques they admire in their reading and apply them in their written expression. Furthermore, writing encourages deeper engagement with text; when students write about what they read, they often process information more thoroughly, which reinforces their understanding and retention. This mutual reinforcement is a key component in developing literate individuals capable of critical thinking and effective communication.