scripod.com

How reading shapes your brain

Shownote

Do you remember what it was like before you learnt to read? It's hard to think back that far! Scientific research has shown that learning to read changes the way our brains work. Not only that, but depending on the language you are reading, your brain changes in different ways. Becca and Georgie discuss this and teach you some new vocabulary. Find a transcript and worksheet at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2026/ep-260514 Got another 6 Minutes? Try Real Easy English to learn from natural English conversations: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/real-easy-english/ Learn English from the biggest news stories from around the world: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/learning-english-from-the-news_2026 Search 'BBC Learning English' in your podcast app to find our other programmes or visit bbclearningenglish.com

Highlights

This podcast explores how learning to read fundamentally changes the brain, requiring the creation of new neural pathways. Hosts Becca and Georgie discuss the cognitive demands of reading and how different languages can shape the brain in unique ways.
00:00
Reading is not a natural skill like speaking.
03:28
Learning to read is not natural; it co-opts brain areas for vision, hearing, and language.

Chapters

Why reading is like building a new highway in your brain
00:00
How your mother tongue literally rewires your brain
03:28

Transcript

Georgie: This BBC podcast is supported by ads outside the UK. Speaker 3: Butterfly refresher from Starbucks guava and passion fruit flavors with mango, pineapple flavored pearls. Yeah, that feels like summer before you even taste it. Funny how one small s...