Extensive Reading and Vocabulary Learning Paul Nation

Summary

The video discusses how vocabulary learning occurs through extensive reading, which involves reading books at the right level with minimal unknown words. Key factors for learning include repetition, varied retrieval, and deep processing. Repetition helps reinforce word memory, while varied retrieval occurs when words are encountered in different contexts. Deeper processing, or elaboration, strengthens vocabulary further. Learners are encouraged to do lots of graded reading, minimize dictionary use, and focus on understanding words from context. Re-reading books also aids vocabulary learning by increasing fluency and providing additional repetition.

Takeaways

• 📚 Extensive reading involves reading many books at an appropriate level for the reader.
• 🔤 Vocabulary learning occurs effectively when unknown words make up less than two words per 100 running words.
• 🧠 Repetition is crucial for vocabulary acquisition—typically, a word needs to be encountered at least seven or eight times to be learned.
• 📖 Graded readers are essential for low to medium proficiency learners, as they use a controlled vocabulary for better comprehension.
• 🔍 Noticing unfamiliar words and guessing their meanings helps link a word's form with its meaning.
• 📚 Retrieval strengthens the memory of words when revisited after initial exposure, especially under varied contexts.
• 🔄 Varied meetings—where a word is encountered in different forms and contexts—lead to deeper learning.
• 🧩 Elaboration involves analyzing word structures like prefixes and suffixes, which aids in deeper vocabulary processing.
• 📝 To deepen learning, learners can note new words, create word cards, and study them deliberately.
• 🚫 Extensive reading should focus on reading rather than being turned into a vocabulary-heavy activity, ensuring a balance between vocabulary learning and overall language proficiency.

Q & A

What is extensive reading, and why is it important?

Extensive reading involves reading a large volume of books that are at the appropriate level for the reader. It is important because it exposes learners to new vocabulary in context without overwhelming them with too many unfamiliar words.

Why should the vocabulary load in extensive reading be light?

The vocabulary load should be light, meaning fewer than two unknown words per 100 running words, so that learners can focus on reading without being overwhelmed by new words. This makes the reading experience more enjoyable and helps with comprehension.

What are graded readers, and why are they useful for vocabulary learning?

Graded readers are books written with a controlled vocabulary, making them ideal for learners with low to medium proficiency. These books allow learners to read without encountering too many unknown words, facilitating vocabulary learning through repetition.

How does repetition affect vocabulary learning?

Repetition is crucial for vocabulary learning. A word typically needs to be encountered at least seven or eight times before it is learned. The more frequently a learner sees a word, the better it is for long-term retention.

What is meant by 'depth of processing' in vocabulary learning?

Depth of processing refers to how deeply a learner thinks about a word when encountering it. The more thoughtfully a word is processed, the better it will stick in memory. Shallow processing (e.g., briefly noticing a word) leads to less retention, while deeper engagement strengthens the word's memory trace.

What are 'varied meetings,' and why are they beneficial?

Varied meetings occur when a learner encounters the same word in different contexts. This is beneficial because it helps learners understand how the word is used in different situations, which strengthens their ability to retrieve the word's meaning.

How does the form of a word changing (e.g., singular vs. plural) affect learning?

When the form of a word changes, such as a noun appearing in plural form or a verb appearing in different tenses, it provides a varied context for the learner. This varied context helps the learner understand the word's flexibility and strengthens the memory of it.

What is elaboration, and how does it enhance vocabulary learning?

Elaboration involves giving deliberate attention to a word by analyzing its components (e.g., prefixes, suffixes, root words). This deeper level of processing helps learners understand the word more fully, leading to better retention.

Why is it recommended not to rely too much on dictionary use during extensive reading?

While looking up words in the dictionary can be helpful, it is recommended not to rely too heavily on this during extensive reading. Guessing from context and recalling previous encounters with the word leads to better long-term retention and fluency.

How does re-reading books contribute to vocabulary learning?

Re-reading books increases fluency and provides additional opportunities to encounter previously learned words. This repetition helps strengthen the memory of the words, making it easier for learners to recall them in future readings.