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Big Quote by Jon Scieszka

“The big problem is just this kind of gigantic piece, of kids reading less and liking it less and so getting worse at it. It's kind of this terrible spiral: Since they're not so good at it they do less of it, get worse at it, do less of it. And it's really what I discovered five, six years ago when…” quote by Jon Scieszka
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“The big problem is just this kind of gigantic piece, of kids reading less and liking it less and so getting worse at it. It's kind of this terrible spiral: Since they're not so good at it they do less of it, get worse at it, do less of it. And it's really what I discovered five, six years ago when I started the 'Guys Read' thing.”

Jon Scieszka

About This Quote

A decline in reading skills creates a feedback loop where reduced competence leads to less practice, further diminishing ability and interest.

In simple terms: Reading decline fuels a vicious cycle.

Key Takeaway

Practice sustains skill.

Themes

Education Literacy Motivation Skill Development Feedback Loops

Mood

Concerned Hopeful Urgent

Type

Observation Call to action

When to use this quote

  • Elementary classrooms
  • After‑school programs
  • Parent‑teacher meetings
  • Literacy interventions
  • Community reading clubs

Key Concepts

Reading proficiency Student engagement Habit formation

Practical Applications

  • Designing reading incentives
  • Implementing peer reading groups

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we break the cycle of disengagement?
  • What incentives motivate reluctant readers?
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