Reading for change: Performance and engagement across countries - results from PISA 2000

The PISA study provides an answer to the question: "How well can young people read, as they approach the end of their basic education? " It shows reading literacy levels from 32 countries. "Following the initial report, ... this report looks more closely at performance in reading. Some countries manage to combine high results overall with relatively small difference among students; in others, there are worringly large numbers of students capable of only the most basic reading tasks. More specifically, there are particularly wide differences, in some countries, in the ability of students to deal with written materials in non-continuous form - such as graphs or forms. Students also show greater differences in many countries in their ability to retrieve required information from texts than when it comes to interpreting or reflecting on information. Such outcomes give clues to policy makers about how their education system might improve. More specific policy messages come from looking at which students read well" (advantaged, female, engaged in reading, positive attitudes to reading). "This book will help readers understand better the factors associated with reading well in the modern world." (DIPF/Orig./Bi.).