Reading has been a common leisurely pass-time ever since books originated. In modern times, the world has seen a decrease in the popularity of this activity, particularly among youth. This may be due to the fact that most schools now use reading as an element of education, thus it has slowly transformed from a form of entertainment into a chore.

Marjory Stoneman Douglas students of all grades have been assigned to read at least one book in their high school career, but how many of them still choose to read on their own without mandatory instruction? Around campus at MSD, many students have shared their opinion and daily activity about reading at home. A questionnaire was put together to show, just on average, how many students read voluntarily and how many don’t.

“I start off reading really good everyday, but then slow it down to twice a week. Whenever I see a good book either on the internet or TV, I end up getting it but never finishing it,” junior Rebecca Bogart said. “Also, when there is a really good book that I have been wanting to read comes out in theaters I usually just go see the movie than read.”

Most students talk about how their grade has changed the way they read at home. Being a senior means prepping for graduation and filling out college applications. Juniors such as Bogart, have time to at least start a book that they chose on their own.

“I do a lot with my friends on weekends and usually don’t have time to read a full book,” senior Anginay Jorge said.

Most students seem to read only if it is mandatory. This is due to the fact, that schools have made reading viewed as a such “chore” than how it once was back 20 years ago. Today’s generation has the internet and social media promoting movies more than books. Also, it is a lot easier and much preferred for students to just look at pictures instead of reading long paragraphs.

“Whenever a teacher assigns books to the class, I will read, but on my own I don’t bother,” sophomore Jesse Guttenberg said.

Teenagers all around campus also explain that they do not seem to have enough time for them to get through a whole book. School work and rushing to keep grades up on top of sports and other extracurricular activities are the main reason most students just do not have time for books. When a book is assigned, that falls into the category for keeping grades up so they squeeze that into their study time. Overall, most students who voiced their opinion no matter their grade, lean more towards reading only if assigned rather than under the covers in their own home.