I know that reading improves writing, but do you think writing improves reading?

Question

Does it work both ways?

Answer 1

Absolutely! They are reciprocal processes. Growth in writing correlates to growth in reading because you tend to see text through a "writer's eyes" and then gain greater understanding. The converse is true- a good reader can then put thoughts into words as s/he composes based on interaction with text.

Answer 2

There is a caveat. Good reading, that is reading that has been written well, improves writing; and under that same caveat, good writing improves reading. Reading and writing are both language functions and exercise the same part of the brain. If you exercise the good stuff, you get the good stuff in return. The reverse is also true.

In 2000 my then 20-year-old daughter was traumatically brain injured in a car wreck and became aphasic. That means she "knows what she wants to say; she just can't say it." By consistently practicing with her in re-developing her reading skills, she was able to re-learn how to write. When she gained the confidence to start writing again, and with much practice, not only has her writing skills improved, but she is reading higher level books. On top of that, she now knows how to say more of the things she wants to say.

If you have guessed that this has started a spiral of improvement, you are correct. The young woman who was described by the doctor as possibly never being able to generate a thought on her own has now graduated from cosmetology school and is scheduling her exam for licensing. I'd call that a fairly impressive proof of the reciprocal process of language development. But it isn't "instant." It takes time and practice. Good practice.

Answer 3

No, i don't. I mean reading teaches you new words while writing is just writing.

Answer 4

Of course!