By: Emma Garcia – Senior Editor of the Township of Lyons Chronicle

You should know what the word “silhouette” means; if not, you might be a part of the United States illiteracy crisis. One of the latest trends on social media is of people attempting to read and explain a sentence given to them on an index card. The words on the card aren’t supposed to be difficult to understand, yet most people badly mispronounce and misinterpret them.

According to the National Literacy Institute, 2024-25 statistics show around 54% of U.S. adults read below a sixth-grade level. Similarly, looking at younger generations, 64% of U.S. fourth graders are not able to read proficiently.

While illiteracy is concerning for adults, this massive problem is only getting worse among younger generations over time. Over the past several years, the U.S. literacy rate has been decreasing steadily. The inability to read and write at a typical level has affected our ability to communicate and adds to our dependency on technology. In a way, the thing that’s so fascinating and advanced has evolved into something that prevents us from learning. 

The new mass usage of AI for everyday life strips our ability to think or do things for ourselves. Whether being used for school, work, or advice on your life problems, AI is not a tool you should be using. At the moment, it may seem easy and fast, but it only stunts the growth of your critical thinking and communication skills, not to mention how terrible it is for our environment, consuming a total of around 550 million gallons of water per day.

Literacy and communication are the very foundation of various careers and essential skills needed to navigate everyday life. Strong reading and writing skills open up various opportunities and strengthen critical thinking and brain development.

According to The Harvard Gazette podcast on why U.S literacy rates are decreasing, the COVID-19 pandemic is misunderstood as a main factor in the literacy decline, while in reality, there is actually no data that directly shows the pandemic had a grand impact. 

“When you’re looking at reading skills, it’s actually hard to make a case that the [COVID-19] pandemic is the most important factor,” Marty West, academic dean and professor of education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, said. “In grade eight, the scores have been falling steadily since 2017, [before the spread had even begun].” 

Illiteracy in general is often disregarded and not taken seriously. It is important to pay attention to these issues and do what you can to prevent any further decline. Pick up a book, write that essay, and go to a library! Libraries have so many resources that often get overlooked. Instead of simply laughing and scrolling, learn what the word “silhouette” means so the next time a stranger stops you in the street and shoves an index card in your face, you’re ready. Take action against this crisis and help educate those around you.