ABSTRACT
A common way to begin a discussion of reading is to provide a definition of the concept. However, this strategy, while important for clarifying later discussions, is not so easy. We noted in the introduction that it is possible to present a single-sentence definition of reading such as the following: ‘Reading is the ability to draw meaning from the printed page and interpret this information appropriately.’ However, without quibbling over the exact wording of such a definition, it is, nonetheless, insufficient as a way to understand the true nature of reading abilities. There are five important reasons why this simple definition is inadequate:
• First, it does not convey the idea that there are a number of ways to engage in reading. A reader has several possible purposes for reading, and each purpose emphasises a somewhat different combination of skills and strategies.
