Why is reading considered an active process?

Reading is considered an active process primarily because it requires effort from the reader. When engaging with text, readers must actively decode symbols, interpret meanings, make connections to prior knowledge, and comprehend the overall message. This mental engagement necessitates focus and concentration, which distinguishes reading from passive activities, such as watching television.

The act of reading involves critical thinking, analyzing information, and synthesizing ideas. Readers must engage with the content by questioning it, predicting outcomes, and summarizing what they have learned. This interaction leads to a deeper understanding of the material and enhances retention of information. Thus, recognizing reading as an active process underscores the cognitive skills involved in transforming written words into meaningful concepts and ideas.