Why is motivation important in reading instruction?

Motivation is a critical component in reading instruction because it directly influences students' engagement with texts and their willingness to practice reading. When students are motivated, they are more likely to initiate and sustain reading activities, which is essential for developing their literacy skills. Engaged readers are prone to explore a variety of genres and topics, leading to improved comprehension and vocabulary development.

Teachers who foster a love of reading can create an environment where students seek out and enjoy reading for pleasure, not just as a task. This intrinsic motivation is vital for lifelong reading habits. Additionally, motivated students are not only more likely to engage in reading but often take the initiative to explore related subjects, deepening their understanding and enjoyment of literature.

This answer highlights that motivation leads to a proactive approach in learning, which is particularly important in literacy development.