What is EXTENSIVE READING, and why (and how) should you do it?

Summary

In this video, Morksensei introduces the concept of extensive reading, a powerful method to improve English language skills. It involves reading easy, interesting materials quickly over extended periods, which enhances vocabulary, reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Key points include reading often and fast, choosing texts at your level, focusing on enjoyable content, and avoiding stress. The method is self-driven, allowing learners to develop at their own pace without a teacher’s active involvement. Morksensei encourages learners to incorporate extensive reading into their routine for rapid, enjoyable language improvement.

Takeaways

• 😀 Extensive reading improves English skills in all areas: vocabulary, reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
• 📚 Extensive reading involves quickly reading easy and interesting materials for long periods, unlike intensive reading, which focuses on slow, careful reading of difficult texts.
• 📈 Regular extensive reading boosts motivation, self-esteem, and language skills.
• ⏱️ Aim to read a lot, often, and quickly. Try to read for at least 20-30 minutes daily, eventually working up to 2-3 hours per session.
• 🔍 Read at your level to avoid frustration. If the material is too difficult, switch to easier texts to maintain motivation.
• 📖 Graded readers are a great tool, as they are specially designed for non-native English learners, with simpler vocabulary and grammar.
• 📝 Choose materials that interest you. Engaging content keeps you motivated and encourages you to read more.
• 🌐 Reading a variety of genres and topics exposes you to different vocabulary, writing styles, and new ideas, which can enhance conversations in English.
• 😄 Enjoyment is key. Read for pleasure, not for study. The goal is to understand, learn, and enjoy, not to stress about language rules.
• 🤫 Extensive reading is a solitary, silent activity. It’s done alone to focus on reading quickly and for understanding.
• 🎓 Your teacher is a guide, not a central part of your extensive reading practice. Take control of your own reading journey.

Q & A

What is the main activity suggested for improving English language skills?

The main activity suggested is extensive reading, which involves reading books or other materials that are easy and interesting over long periods of time.

How does extensive reading differ from intensive reading?

Extensive reading is fast and focused on reading a large quantity of easier texts, while intensive reading is slow and careful, often focused on short and difficult texts.

What are some benefits of extensive reading, according to the script?

Extensive reading can improve vocabulary, reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, and it can also increase motivation and self-esteem.

What is the recommended reading pace for extensive reading?

The recommended reading pace for extensive reading is at least 150-200 words per minute. However, reading slower is acceptable, especially when starting out.

Why should readers avoid using a dictionary too often during extensive reading?

Readers should try to guess the meaning of unfamiliar words from context instead of using a dictionary, as frequent dictionary use disrupts the flow of reading and hinders the goal of reading quickly.

What types of reading materials are suitable for extensive reading?

Suitable materials for extensive reading include graded readers, bilingual books, books aimed at native speakers, magazines, comics, and websites. The key is that the materials should be at an appropriate level of difficulty.

How can readers determine what level of reading material is appropriate for them?

Readers can determine their level by using their score on English proficiency exams like TOEFL, TOEIC, or IELTS to find books that match their current level.

Why is it important to read for pleasure during extensive reading?

Reading for pleasure ensures that the activity remains enjoyable and motivating. If the material is interesting, readers are more likely to keep going and build their skills without feeling stressed.

What should readers keep in mind when choosing what to read for extensive reading?

Readers should choose topics that interest them to maintain motivation and curiosity. The content should also be varied to expose readers to different vocabulary and writing styles.

What role does the teacher play in the process of extensive reading?

The teacher’s role is minimal in extensive reading. They are a guide, but the learner is in charge of their own reading practice, selecting materials and managing their reading schedule.