One of the proven benefits of reading is that it helps to build a stronger memory. But does it matter if you read the words on a page or listen to them?
In a 2016 study, one group of readers was asked to listen to an excerpt (摘录) from the audiobook version of Laura Hillenbrand’s Unbroken, while another group read the same excerpt on an e-reader. A third group read and listened at the same time.
All participants were then given a quiz to measure how well they had absorbed the material. It was concluded that participants were able to recall as much from reading as they were from listening.
Reading has been proven to provide a number of benefits to your brain, and make you smarter overall. However, science also tells us that listening to audiobooks can also have very positive effects on the brain. For example, according to a study by the Journal of Verbal Learning and Verbal Behavior, our brains are more likely to create meaningful images when we listen to stories, as opposed to reading them in a traditional format. That’s because when we listen instead of reading, our brains are allowed more space for their visual processes to do their things.
In addition, audiobooks can also help boost your comprehension and vocabulary as much as their print and digital versions. Audio versions might even have an extra advantage for those of us learning English as a second language or teaching kids to read, since proper pronunciation will be guaranteed. This benefit can be enhanced by following along with the text while listening to the audio.
There’s no doubt that both reading and listening to books do some great good to your brain and overall well-being. Thankfully, a great read (or listen) is more accessible than you’d think! There are dozens of free and cheap print books, audiobooks, and e-books out there waiting to be discovered!
【小题1】How was the 2016 study carried out?| A．By giving examples. | B．By doing interviews. |
| C．By analyzing causes and effects. | D．By making a comparison. |
| A．To strengthen their memory. | B．To improve their ability. |
| C．To test their learning effects. | D．To understand their personalities. |
| A．Listening creates mental pictures. | B．Reading results in a better memory. |
| C．Reading turns visual processes into reality. | D．Listening improves our imagination. |
| A．ensure greater fluency in learners’ language speaking |
| B．bring about greater effect combined with text reading |
| C．account for greater share of resources than paper ones |
| D．become digital once its paper-based versions come out |
