Extensive reading vs Intensive reading: 2 methods for language learning

Summary

In this video, language enthusiast Erin discusses two essential techniques for reading books in foreign languages to enhance language learning: intensive and extensive reading. Intensive reading involves studying a text meticulously, while extensive reading is about consuming large amounts of material for broader exposure. Both methods have their merits, and Erin recommends using them in tandem. She shares her personal experience with learning Thai through intensive reading of children's books and using apps like LingQ for extensive reading. Erin also teases upcoming videos and an exciting announcement related to these reading techniques.

Takeaways

• 📚 The video discusses two effective techniques for reading books in foreign languages to improve language skills: intensive reading and extensive reading.
• 👩‍🏫 Intensive reading involves studying a book page by page, focusing on understanding every detail, which is more like studying and learning new grammar and vocabulary.
• 📚 Extensive reading is about reading a lot of material without necessarily understanding every word, which helps in getting more exposure to the language.
• 🔍 Both techniques are recommended to be used together as they complement each other, with intensive reading being more beneficial for beginners.
• 🌐 The video was initially a live stream but was reposted due to poor video quality in Thailand, and the presenter, Erin, is an English teacher in Thailand focusing on language learning.
• 📖 For intensive reading, children's books are suggested as they provide context through pictures, have short sentences, and are repetitive, which aids in language learning.
• 🎧 To enhance language learning, the presenter used a volunteer to record the audio of a children's book, allowing her to listen and practice pronunciation while reading.
• 📱 The app 'LingQ' is recommended for extensive reading as it allows readers to upload ebooks and provides definitions and the ability to highlight unknown words.
• 📈 Stephen Krashen, a renowned expert in second language acquisition, advocates for extensive reading as a fun and effective way to learn a foreign language.
• 📢 The presenter plans to release more videos in the coming weeks focusing specifically on intensive and extensive reading techniques.

Q & A

What are the two techniques discussed in the video for reading books in foreign languages?

The two techniques discussed are intensive reading and extensive reading.

What is intensive reading and how does it help in language learning?

Intensive reading involves studying a book in the target language page by page, line by line, and word by word, ensuring full understanding of every detail and nuance. It's beneficial for learning new grammar and vocabulary and is particularly effective for beginners.

How does extensive reading differ from intensive reading?

Extensive reading involves reading a lot of material without necessarily understanding every word, focusing on getting a broad exposure to the language. It's more about reading for pleasure and is less laborious than intensive reading.

Why is it recommended to use both intensive and extensive reading techniques?

Both techniques have their unique benefits and drawbacks. Intensive reading helps with in-depth understanding and vocabulary retention, while extensive reading provides broader exposure to the language and can be more enjoyable. Using both allows for a balanced approach to language learning.

What is the role of children's books in intensive reading according to the video?

Children's books are recommended for intensive reading because they have short sentences, are often repetitive, and include pictures for context, making them ideal for beginners to learn and reinforce new vocabulary and grammar.

How does the video suggest improving pronunciation while doing intensive reading?

The video suggests having a native speaker read the book aloud and providing an audio recording, which can be used to listen and practice pronunciation along with the reading.

What is the significance of the term 'comprehensible input' mentioned in the video?

Comprehensible input refers to the idea of understanding most of what you're reading in a foreign language, but not everything, to keep learning at the edge of your current abilities. This concept is central to Stephen Krashen's theories on second language acquisition.

What is the role of enjoyment in extensive reading as discussed in the video?

Enjoyment is crucial in extensive reading as it motivates learners to continue reading in the target language, making the learning process more sustainable and effective in the long run.

How does the LingQ app facilitate extensive reading in foreign languages?

LingQ allows users to upload ebooks and read them, highlighting unknown words for quick lookup. It also tracks words that have been learned, making it easier to focus on new vocabulary.

What announcement does the video end with regarding intensive and extensive reading?

The video ends with a teaser about an upcoming announcement related to intensive and extensive reading, which will be shared within the next week or two.