So they say knowledge is power, right? Well to gain knowledge you have to read, read, read and you'll be all powerful!

Wait...so I have to read at school AND at home?!

Yep! BUT I PROMISE it is in your very best interest. And since I don't assign a ton of homework to be completed at home, I expect you to read 15 - 20 minutes at home each night. So yes, you will have to spend 15 - 20 fewer minutes on Facebook, texting, hanging out with friends, playing video games etc. But I can assure you the reward is definitely worth the cost.

But what kinds of things can I read?!

ANYTHING! You are welcome to read anything that interests you including articles, Sports Illustrated, fashion magazines, novels, poems, blogs, medical journals, current events etc. As long as you are reading something moderately challenging you will certainly reap the benefits.

So, how will reading help me?

1. Improves general intelligence...Well, it turns out that reading helps in almost every area of smarts. Those that read have higher GPA’s, higher intelligence, and general knowledge than those that don’t. Reading, in general, makes you smarter, and it keeps you sharp as you age. No matter what you’re wanting to do or become, you can’t do it without more knowledge.

2. Helps you reach goals...Reading is an excellent way to get where you’re wanting to go. Readers improve their general knowledge, and more importantly are able to spot patterns quicker. If you can spot patterns quicker, your analytical skills receive a boost.

3. Improves vocabulary...Reading increases your vocabulary and improves your spelling, but did you know that reading increases your vocabulary more than talking or direct teaching? Reading forces us to look at words that we might not have seen or heard recently in conversation. In fact, language in children’s books are likely to be more sophisticated than your average conversation.

Having a well rounded vocabulary isn’t just for writers though. Knowing what other people are saying and using the perfect words to convey your feelings is a critical part of being a better human. Better listeners are more successful in life.

4. Reading makes you a better writer...Whether you realize it or not, the more you read the better your writing will become. You take mental notes of how the writer conveys mood and feelings through words, your imagination and creativity is sparked when you read a particularly interesting book, the mechanics of your writing improves as you read and notice the author's use of grammar, punctuation, sentence structure etc.

In short, get out there and READ!! Your brain will thank you!! :)