Reading Skills for Today's Adults

Alex is 10 years old and in fourth grade. Some of his friends went to the movies last weekend. His friends told him it was a great show! Alex really wants to see the movie. 

​

The movie Alex wants to see is rated PG-13. His parents usually do not let him watch PG-13 movies. A PG-13 rating means the movie may not be good for children under age 13. Violence, profanity, drug use, and sexual behavior are found in many PG-13 movies. 

​

Alex’s mom and dad do let Alex watch G and PG movies. A G rating means the movie is for general audiences of all ages. A PG rating means that parental guidance is suggested. Parents need to decide if a PG-rated movie is a good one for their child to watch. Some PG-rated movies may seem okay, while others may not. 

​

Parents should watch PG movies with their children. They can then discuss both the good and bad activity in the movie. They can ask each other questions about the content of the movie. A PG movie may not be good for younger children. 

​

Alex talked with his mom and dad about wanting to see the movie. They decided to do some research on the movie. They went to https://www.commonsensemedia.org/ on the internet. The website has information about movies, television shows, books and video games. 

​

It provided helpful information about the movie Alex wanted to see. There was a summary of the movie and ratings of how much violence, sex, and profanity was in it. Due to the content of the movie, the website recommended it for ages 15 and older. Alex’s parents determined the movie was not a good one for Alex. 

​

Alex was disappointed. Mom and Dad took Alex to the library to check out a movie. Alex found one he was interested in watching. Mom and Dad were comfortable with the PG rating. They all had a nice evening watching the movie together.