Proficient readers use background knowledge to comprehend texts, adapt reading strategies to context, and contribute to solving personal and societal problems through sustained reading activities. They use post-reading reflection and evaluation to fulfill the purpose of reading.
Proficient readers have the ability to effectively use background knowledge to understand and reconstruct the meaning of a text. Background knowledge is a structured body of experience and knowledge that exists in the reader’s memory. Proficient readers activate their background knowledge in relation to the text they are reading, and then use it to understand exactly what the text is saying.
However, even proficient readers may encounter parts of the text that they don’t understand because they don’t have enough background knowledge. In this case, a skilled reader doesn’t stop reading, but instead considers the context of the text to construct meaning. If necessary, they look up references to expand their understanding of the relevant parts. For example, when reading a scientific paper or historical document, if the reader lacks background knowledge in the field, he or she will use a dictionary or additional resources to fill in the gaps.
When preparing to read, proficient readers analyze the nature of the text and examine their own reading skills. They develop reading strategies to accomplish their reading goals. This process usually consists of reviewing the table of contents and reading the introduction or preface to get a general idea of what the text is about. However, when you’re actually reading, the nature of the text may not be what you expected, and your reading environment may change. For example, you may encounter unexpected noises or distractions. Proficient readers recognize these changes and adapt their reading behavior by adapting new reading strategies and adjusting their reading behavior accordingly. After reading, they reflect and evaluate whether they have met their reading goals and the characteristics of the text.
Skilled readers don’t just grasp the surface meaning of a text while reading. They explore the implications or hidden messages in the text and try to determine the author’s intent. In doing so, they use critical thinking to evaluate the logical consistency and persuasiveness of the text. Especially when reading texts that address controversial topics or complex issues, proficient readers consider multiple points of view and form their own opinions about the text.
Our ancestors also emphasized that a reader must possess certain abilities and attitudes to read scriptures. The purpose of reading the scriptures is to reach a state where one can realize the providence of all things through the reasoning contained in the texts, but the meaning of the scriptures is difficult to grasp because of the compression of what the author is trying to convey. Therefore, in order to familiarize oneself with the content of the texts, the reading strategy is to read them repeatedly. After understanding the structure and core content of the text, the reader applies a new reading method that takes into account his or her changed condition and employs new strategies, such as actively utilizing background knowledge.
Proficient readers don’t stop at fully comprehending a piece of text, but instead aim to continue reading. They keep track of their reading history and organize their to-be-read lists to ensure that their reading is spontaneous and balanced. These habits will help you build your knowledge in various fields and learn new perspectives. Then, actively utilize the knowledge and wisdom gained through reading to solve personal and social problems. For example, they may join a book club or discussion group to share their knowledge with others and contribute to finding solutions to social issues. In this way, a skilled reader aims to contribute not only to personal growth through reading, but also to the development of the community.
Becoming a skilled reader requires constant effort and discipline. You need to read texts on a variety of topics and develop the habit of thinking from multiple perspectives. It’s also important to examine and improve your reading process. To do this, reading should be seen as more than just a hobby, but as an important means of self-improvement. If you make reading a habit, it will help you improve your quality of life.
