In simple terms Extensive Reading is reading as many easy books as
possible for pleasure, and can be contrasted with intensive reading
which is slow, careful reading of a short, difficult text. Day and
Bamford (1998), Day (2002), Prowse (2002), and Maley (2008 and 2009)
have identified a number of key characteristics of Extensive Reading in
language learning. Here is a digest of what I think are the seven most
important principles for successful Extensive Reading:
- Students read a great deal, quite quickly (at least 150-200 words a minute) and often.
- The reading material is relatively easy for the level of the
students. Too much unknown language prevents students from reading
quickly and fluently.
- It is the student, not the teacher, who chooses what to read.
- Students have a wide variety of genres and topics to choose from.
- Students read for pleasure, information or general understanding.
- Reading is individual and silent.
- The teacher asks as a guide, monitor and role model.
