Extensive reading

Extensive reading, often called ER, is a specific approach to reading. It involves reading longer, easier texts for extended periods. The goal is to read without feeling overwhelmed or needing constant breaks. This method differs from intensive or academic reading. Intensive reading focuses on short, dense, and difficult texts. In contrast, ER emphasizes reading for pleasure, information, or general understanding. It is based on the idea that we learn to read by reading.

Several core principles, or tenets, guide the practice of extensive reading. Richard Day, a co-founder of The Extensive Reading Foundation, outlined these rules. First, the material must be easy and varied in topic and style. This ensures that learners remain engaged and motivated. Second, the reading speed should be fast rather than slow. Third, the main purpose must be pleasure. Fourth, the act of reading is typically individual and silent. While some programs use read-alouds, silence is a common trait. Finally, reading is its own reward. This means there are usually no quizzes or tests afterward.

Teachers play a vital role in making ER successful. They act as role models for what a reader looks like. They must also explain the specific methodology to their students. Teachers guide students in selecting appropriate materials to maximize the program's effects. They also keep records of what has been read. Some modern practitioners have added new elements to this process. They might include discussions or story summaries after reading. Others use audio materials alongside the texts to support the learners.

To help students find the right level, publishers create graded readers. These are book series that increase in difficulty gradually. The first volumes use common words and shorter sentences. Later volumes introduce less common vocabulary and longer texts. Many series exist in languages like French, German, Italian, and Spanish. Notable examples include the Oxford Bookworm series, which uses the 2,500 most frequent words. The Longman Bridge Series once offered a systematic grading up to 8,000 words. Other series, like the Penguin Readers, use various metrics like the Lexile scale or CEFR levels to guide readers.

Extensive reading can provide significant benefits for language learners. It promotes reading fluency and comprehension in both first and second languages. Learners often gain greater grammar and vocabulary knowledge through this method. It also increases background knowledge and builds language confidence. In 2013, a literacy project called Big Brother Mouse implemented ER in rural Laos. Many children there speak minority ethnic languages at home. By starting daily reading periods in September 2013, the program helped improve vocabulary and reading skills.

Researchers have identified specific thresholds for efficient reading. Laufer suggests that knowing 3,000 word families is a key milestone. Coady and Nation suggest that 5,000 word families or 8,000 items allow for a pleasurable experience. Once a learner reaches this level, they leave the "beginner paradox." They enter a "virtuous circle" where reading becomes much more efficient. However, there is a debate regarding how much ER can teach alone. Researcher Cobb argued that reading alone might not be enough to build a large vocabulary. He suggested that most learners need more lexical input to master a language.

Despite these debates, organizations continue to support the movement. The Extensive Reading Foundation is a non-profit that promotes these practices. They offer the Language Learner Literature Award for new English works. They also provide grants to help schools purchase books. In Japan, the Extensive Reading Special Interest Group helps teachers set up programs. They publish research to help educators make the most of extensive reading in the classroom.