Which statement best summarizes the main idea of a passage arguing that early literacy improves long-term outcomes?

• A. Early literacy has no effect on future outcomes.
• B. Early literacy only affects reading speed.
• C. Early literacy development leads to better long-term academic and life outcomes.
• D. Early literacy reduces classroom engagement.

Answer: (C)

Developing literacy skills early creates advantages that carry forward into many areas of schooling and life. The passage supports a broad, lasting impact, not just a single skill or a short-term change. So the statement that best captures the idea is that early literacy development leads to better long-term academic and life outcomes. This reflects how early reading foundations help with future learning, achievement, and opportunities beyond the classroom.

The other ideas don’t fit because one denies any lasting effect, another limits impact to a narrow area like reading speed, and another suggests a negative consequence on engagement—none of which align with the claim of broad, enduring benefits.