Investigates two characteristics of texts--structural importance and text-based interest--that affect what students remember from their reading of biography. Finds that interest has a powerful effect on recall for both good and poor readers. Finds that seductive details and main ideas were best remembered whereas details supporting the main idea…

Examines the relationship among sources of interest, perceived interest, and text recall. Reveals (through factor analysis) six different sources of interest. Suggests sources of interest affect perceived interest, which in turn affects recall. Suggests that text structure appears to play an important role in perceived situational interest and,…